Photo Essay: Apashka, by Pavel Prokopchik

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Apashka

Apa or Apashka in Kazakh language means – granny. That’s how people address a shaman woman who is living in Ungurtas village, Kazakhstan. Ungurtas is located very close to Kirgyzian boarder, on the way from Almaty to Bishkek. Originally from Turkistan, Apa was told by the spirits to find a particular mountain. She found it 8 years ago, made a temporary living space and started accepting pilgrims. Soon after, pilgrims built a whole farm, made steps on the mountain, which is thought to have healing properties.

Apa is a sufi, she calls herself the last dervish of Kazakhstan. People come from other countries to visit her, Russia, Ukraine, White Russia and of course other cities in Kazakhstan. Some of the rituals she performs include slaying of a goat and pouring blood onto practically naked people. Or after killing an animal, blood is smeared onto the face, hands and feet of people currently living at the farm.

Life at the farm is very basic. Every day starts with choirs, bringing water from the river, cleaning the stoves and putting new coal in it, and then taking care of the goats and other animals. Women usually cook and take care of the dishes. Once in a while Apa says that she got a command from the spirits and gives out personal or sometimes common assignments, which usually includes visiting some holy place in the neighborhood or saying particular mantras.

Photographer: Pavel Prokopchik
Camera: Canon 5D M2, 35mm/f2.0
Website: www.prokopchik.com

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Comments 12

  11. Hi…my russians friends just visited the village in Kazikstan where Apashka lives. I am very ill and in need of her special help. I live in USA and was interested to know how I can send a photo or email someone who would ask her if she could help me. I’m 49, female and have been chronically ill for the past 16 years. I have many chronic diseases…nothing terminal, but every system in my body is failing and I am disabled and homebound. The doctors have told me to pray pray pray to God and I have been, but am still just as ill. I would be williing to travel when I can with my russian friend to meet with Apashka, if she thinks she can help me. I have heard phenomenal stories about her special powers.

    I am desperate and would appreciate any help or guidance you could offer regarding getting in touch with Apashka.

    Many thanks.

    Reply

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