Ep. 7: Interview with Kalmyk Archaeologist: Who Are the Kalmyks-Oirats - Exploring Their Identity and Cultural Transformations in Post-Siberian Times

What do you know about the Oirats? Were you aware that the Kalmyk people did not traditionally celebrate birthdays and the New Year? Have you come across the term "Nutug" before? Join us as we dive into these intriguing questions and explore the upbringing of my dearest guest in today's episode, Maria Ochir, a Kalmyk Archaeologist.  This episode not only delves into the historical aspects of the Oirats (Kalmyk) people, but also sheds light on Maria's own experiences growing up during the 1960s-1970s when the Kalmyk people returned from the Siberian exile (1943) which lasted 13 years. Throughout this episode, we discuss the various transformations that the Kalmyk people underwent during this period of transition, as well as uncover the concept of nostalgia within the Kalmyk culture. P.S: Kalmyks are Oirats Song used in this episode is by band qaynar & radif kashapov called Сәхибҗамал, Газиз һәм Фатыйх. Diversity Podcast's instagram