The Story of Ablai Khan
Ablai Khan (1711-1781) was one of the greatest Kazakh khans, who united the three Kazakh zhuzes (hordes) and led the struggle against the Dzungar invaders. According to legend, as a thirteen-year-old orphan named Abulmansur, he worked as a shepherd disguised as a beggar called 'Sabalak' to avoid his father's rivals. His destiny was revealed when he miraculously defeated a Dzungar champion in single combat, earning the title 'batyr' (hero). He was a master diplomat who played Russia against China to maintain Kazakh independence. Legend says he was blessed by the spirit of his ancestor Genghis K