The Patterns of the Nomad in Buryat Urban Culture

Abstract

The nomadic mode of life among Buryats no longer exists. It was devastated in the epoch of the Soviet Union by forced sedentarization and collectivization. However, the figure of the nomad is still present in the various arts. Contemporarily, the figure of the nomad has started to appear in pop culture. In this research article, I will prove the nomad i as a reference point for constructing a new urban identity among Buryats. I will focus mainly on lyrics, primarily in rap songs, because hip-hop is comprehended as urban phenomena. The challenge of revitalizing Buryat collective identity requires finding new symbols, that strongly impact on the people and allow them to self-identify with it. The Nomad, man of the steppe, fulfils these conditions. It connects past with present and demonstrates the Buryat affiliation to the Mongol Civilization. Additionally, everyone can be a nomad, contrary to national heroes who have defined personalities. Therefore, it is a good point of reference. The modern nomad is an effect of forming new Buryat identity in urban condition.