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Todo Bichig — the Clear Script
Created by Zaya Pandita in 1648, the Clear Script recorded Oirat precisely as it was spoken. We teach reading and writing Todo Bichig in regular calligraphy courses.
Sanan e.V. is a non-profit association dedicated to preserving, teaching and celebrating the heritage of the Oirats — the western Mongolic peoples. Discover our history, join a workshop, or support us by purchasing authentic Oirat art.
The Oirats are the westernmost group of the Mongolic peoples, historically uniting the Torghut, Dörbet, Khoshut and Choros tribes. Their descendants today include the Kalmyks of the Caspian steppe — the only traditionally Buddhist people of Europe — as well as Oirat communities in Western Mongolia and Xinjiang.
In 1648 the Oirat scholar Zaya Pandita created Todo Bichig, the "Clear Script", giving the Oirat language its own written form. Oirat culture carries the great heroic epic of Jangar, distinctive music and dance, nomadic crafts and a rich Buddhist tradition.
Sanan e.V. organises cultural events, language and craft workshops, lectures and exhibitions — and supports contemporary Oirat artists by bringing their work to a wider audience.
Centuries of nomadic life between the Altai mountains and the Caspian steppe shaped a culture that is unique — and very much alive.
Created by Zaya Pandita in 1648, the Clear Script recorded Oirat precisely as it was spoken. We teach reading and writing Todo Bichig in regular calligraphy courses.
The heroic epic of Jangar, sung for centuries by jangarchi bards, is a masterpiece of oral literature. Alongside it live the dombra, long songs and biyelgee dance.
Felt making, leatherwork, ornament embroidery — and festivals such as Tsagan Sar and Zul, when families gather, lamps are lit and traditional food is shared.
Hands-on sessions led by native speakers, artists and craftspeople. All levels welcome — proceeds support our cultural programmes.
Learn the basics of the Clear Script: strokes, letters and writing your own name — with ink, bamboo pen and plenty of patience.
Expressive shoulder and arm movements, steppe rhythms and lots of energy. No dance experience needed — just comfortable clothes.
Traditional wet-felting techniques and Oirat ornament patterns. You will take home your own hand-felted piece.
Conversational Oirat/Kalmyk for beginners and heritage speakers. Songs, everyday phrases and friendly tea afterwards.
Cook and share börig, jomba tea and festive dishes of Tsagan Sar. Stories and recipes included.
An evening with recordings and live performance of the Jangar epic, with commentary on its heroes and history.
Every purchase directly supports Oirat artists and our non-profit programmes. Worldwide shipping.
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