Lakays living in Tajikistan

This study examines the current state and historical development of the Lakay people, one of the ethnic Turkic groups living in Tajikistan. The Lakays, in terms of their ethnic origin, are part of the Turkic peoples. Their linguistic features and folkloric elements represent a blend of Kazakh and Uzbek cultures. Additionally, there are studies confirming their closer affinity to the Uzbeks. The Lakays, who are the subject of this research, currently reside in Tajikistan. Their spoken languages are the Lakay dialect (Kipchak Turkic) and Tajik. Within the scope of the study, an attempt has been made to determine the origins of the Lakays and examine their influence on the modern cultural development of Tajikistan. Furthermore, special attention has been given to the process of their integration with the local population, as well as identifying common characteristics with neighboring Turkic countries—Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The study also explores the daily life habits, economic activities, and cultural practices of the Lakays to fully understand their impact on the social and cultural development of the region.