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Renowned Aitys poet Kuanysh Maksut has voiced significant concerns regarding the current state of Kazakh national art, lamenting the decline of the traditional Aitys performance art. He openly discussed the factors he believes are eroding this cherished cultural heritage.

The Influence of Religion on Aitys

In a widely circulated video, Maksut stated, "Religion has destroyed and finished Aitys. In the past, money was poured into Aitys, and at that time, many religious figures were drawn in. Whether good or bad, these religious figures had influence over President Nazarbayev. It's true that 90 percent of poets at that time started praying. We destroyed Aitys that way."

The Detrimental Impact of Tribalism

According to the poet, after religion, tribalism infiltrated Aitys, severely damaging the art form. "I once said in an Aitys, 'Why doesn't East Kazakhstan celebrate Mahambet, why doesn't Karaganda region celebrate Kurmangazy?' Now, looking around, every religious sect is creating its own Aitys," he remarked, expressing his sorrow over the fading of this unique Kazakh art.