Kurash that is attracting millions of people round the world has its long rooted history. As researchers, historians say and according to archeological investigations Kurash originated at least 2500-3000 years ago. It can be proved by rare finds, pictures drawn on rocks in several regions of Uzbekistan including Zarafshon, Surkhon and Fergana.
There are six finds - corporeal evidences that can prove the history of Kurash on scientific basis. The picture drawn on the wall in Panjikent (lsl photo) goes back to Sugd state time i.e. medieval period. One of such evidences is the cylinder shape ware made of clay found in ancient Baktria (west of Uzbekistan) region. On this ware there are two wrestlers depicted and one of them is sweeping his opponent. There are several more evidences from bronze period that prove the history of Kurash goes back to 3500 years.
The second find is from bronze period, which are two horseshoes (2nd photo). Both horseshoes depict Kurash techniques. According to professor M.P. Graznov's words, they were made in accordance with sak-skiff tribe's spiritual view and are related to initial stages of nomad life.
Other evidences found in Chelak area near Samarkand prove the long history of Kurash. Among all the ware with geometric engraves the handle of the silver cup shows two athletes performing techniques like in Kurash. This find is from middle ages. (4,h photo).
According to ethnographic researches, ancient tales, stories and narratives also contained episodes about Kurash. Paying attention to their meaning we understand that they pertain to matriarchy period which means the history of Kurash is as long as 5000 years.
There were 3 kinds of Kurash custom in Uzbek people's life. The first one was as a physical exercise and connected with wedding ceremonies. The bout between the groom and the bride was arranged by the reigning women of that time. This happened because of the right of choosing and testing the groom given during the matriarchy kingdom. (5th and 6lh photos).