This is the western Kazakh version of Nauryz, which begins on March 14 – much earlier than in other regions of Kazakhstan. For the word itself there are several translation variants: from the Arabic name of the month – March, from the Kazakh – work, action.
It is noteworthy that on this day before nightfall it is necessary to bypass all relatives and friends, knocking on 40 doors. In addition, the obligatory tradition of celebrating Amal “körisu” – handshake with both hands, when the younger visit the older, receive their blessings. In translation from Kazakh “körisu” means “to see”, “to meet”. On the day of the feast it is customary to forgive each other all offenses and give gifts. It is believed that the snow that fell on Amal will bring a rich harvest and prosperity.
