Martial Art Tradition and Philosophy
A new type of martial art known as ‘Alpagut’ has been introduced. Its founder is a researcher of ancient Turkic martial arts and an international sports master, Kutsan Vasif Namazov. — TheNews.az
What is Alpagut?
It is a modern martial art that has its roots in antiquity. By the synthesis of the ancient martial art of the Turkic peoples with modern types of martial arts, the Alpagut was obtained. The martial art was widely developed at a high level in the steppe. the way of life of nomadic tribes assumed constant combat readiness, and, moreover, this concerned not only men, but also women. From childhood, nomads learned to shoot a bow, hunt, wrestle, strike with a sword, develop themselves both physically and spiritually. To die not on the battlefield, but in bed – meant for the nomad that the “Great Sky” would not accept their soul. Their strength lay, first of all, in their worldview and strong spirit. This is an ancient Turkic single combat with its own canons, traditions and philosophy.
What prompted you to found this kind of martial art?
Before, I thought about the fact that there is no main type of martial art in the Turkic world. For example, the Chinese, Japanese, Koreans have. And the Turks, who are innovators of the culture of martial arts, do not have a single concept of martial art. So my team and I delve deeper into research, studied history to create a new concept of martial art.
What is included in the concept?
First, Tengrianism (the ancient religion of the Turks), which presupposes belief in one God regardless of religion. Secondly, the hierarchy of the ancient Turkic discipline. Thirdly, a complex of basic techniques adapted for almost all types of martial arts of our time. Alpagut allows, which makes it interesting in principle, to carry out battles in different styles and techniques. That is, an athlete, doing karate, can use judo techniques in parallel, etc. There is a very wide choice for development.
How long ago was the Alpagut formed in Azerbaijan?
The World Alpagut Federation is an international sports organization that was officially registered in 2014 with the aim of developing this martial art around the world. But besides, there is an internal federation of the Alpagut of Azerbaijan. A month ago, we held the fifth republican championship. Alpagut sports schools have been opened in 50 cities and regions of Azerbaijan, so this kind of martial art can be called a national sport.
It can be argued that thanks to you, how did the Alpagut martial art become popular in the world?
As soon as I established the Alpagut and presented it to the public, many countries immediately became interested in it. World Alpagut Federation has official representations in more than 40 countries of the world. Over the years, we have organized two Euro-Asian Championships, two World Cups and two World Championships. All these successes are the success of a professional management team, not just my success.
To what level of preparation will the Alpagut strive?
A warrior is strong when he controls his body, mind and spirit. That is, a person should strive for the perfection of all three components.
Is there an age limit?
No. Even a person in years can come to us, because the Alpagut is not so much a competition as a way of life. Over time, we notice that, in a person, not only physical strength increases, but also spiritual strength. We are happy to see how the fighter becomes more energetic, positive-minded, self-confident. His thoughts, even his way of life, acquire order and structure, as a whole, his worldview changes.
You mentioned that martial art has five systems. Tell us about them?
They are called: A – Aicha (crescent), B – Batur (hero), C – Chaimaz (fearless), G – Gurshag, K – Kachut. All techniques – punch, kick, head, as well as grips have ancient Türkic names. All five types of systems are conducted in a wolf and falcon circle – this is the main difference between the Alpagut. In the “Wolf” circle with a diameter of 3 m you need to fight for one minute, then in the falcon circle (6 m) for one minute, if there is no winner, then again in the “Wolf” circle.
How often are the competitions held?
The World Alpagut Federation holds at least one seminar and two competitions per year. For example, in November 2021 we are preparing to host the third World Championship in Turkey, the city of Bursa. Competitions are held at the republican level almost every month.
Leading athletes who have proven themselves in world tournaments?
There are good athletes from every country. If we name one, if we don’t name the other, they will be indignant. :)
What, first of all, is the activity of the Alpagut directed?
We strive to ensure that our society is diversified, educated, sane, strong physically and spiritually.
What is the principle of training athletes? What makes this art special?
For example, unlike a combat sport, and alpagut is a martial art, where, first of all, there is terminology, everything has its own name – from the basic methods and techniques of striking to fines (gynag). Hierarchy – when fighters enter the corgan (hall), referring to each other not by name, but by rank: kutsan (founder), tun yaqbu (chief grand master), tegin (master), yargan (teacher), bilginalp (senior student), etc. And philosophy – a fighter must first enrich himself spiritually, be reasonable, and then start fighting.
What is the name of the Alpagut martial art clothing?
“Chapan” is the traditional clothing of a fighter. This is a robe made of thick quilted felt fabric, with long sleeves, no collar, wide chest pockets on both sides, with yellow stripes embroidered on the sleeves, forearms and chest. Chapan was tied with a belt in accordance with the rank of the fighter. White trousers (shalvar) are worn below. This original form of clothing belonged exclusively to the ancient Turkic tribes.
So why Alpagut?
In ancient times, “Alpagut” was a title awarded to Alps who distinguished themselves for their courage. The Alpaguts enjoyed special respect and left a significant mark on the martial culture of the Turkic peoples. “Alpagut” consists of the words “alp” (warrior) and “kut/gut” (saint), which means “holy warrior”.
Who co-founded the World Alpagut Federation (WAF) with you?
From the very first day, the Alpagut was built on a shared ideology with Mr. Farid Alizade. He has been a consistent presence and partner throughout this journey. Together, we established the World Alpagut Federation, followed by the selection of Board Members. Due to his proficiency in multiple international languages and his exceptional potential, the Board Members unanimously chose Farid Alizade as the first President of the World Alpagut Federation. With this appointment, Farid Alizade made history by becoming the first Azerbaijani to serve as the president of a world federation.
