International Journal of Sport and Health Science
Online ISSN : 1880-4012
Print ISSN : 1348-1509
ISSN-L : 1348-1509
Cultural Anthropology
Mongolian Wrestling (Bukh) and Ethnicity
Rikido Tomikawa
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2006 Volume 4 Issue Special_Issue_2006 Pages 103-109

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Abstract

Bukh is a Mongolian traditional sport, in which the wrestler's body represents a beast and a bird of prey, namely supernatural strength. This is recognized as a numinous embodiment or spiritual possession. In the meantime, the incarnation rite of Bukh also functions as that of the community of Nutag. The symbolism of Bukh, in this meaning, is realized in two ritual spaces, the Ovoo festival whose cultural background lies in Nutag and Naadam which is performed as a ceremony. Moreover, the combination between Ovoo and Naadam festivals and Bukh serves a function as a mechanism to sustain collective memories and identity, perpetuating the identity of the Mongolians.

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© 2006 Japan Society of Physical Education, Health and Sport Sciences
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