The Mongolian public is reacting critically to a recent initiative encouraging families and schools to celebrate the historic Republic Day on November 26 with a specific dish, “Bituu Shul.” The directive, signed by E. Lhagva, Deputy Chairman of the Office of the Parliament for Media, Law Promotion, and Public Relations, requested schools and families to prepare the traditional soup as part of commemorations for the day marking the Republic’s declaration and the adoption of Mongolia’s first Constitution.
What is “Bituu Shul”?
“Bituu Shul,” literally translated as “sealed soup,” is a traditional Mongolian dish cooked by sealing meat, vegetables, and spices in a container, often with dough, and slow-cooking it until tender. It represents community and family togetherness, often served during festive occasions. The dish is symbolic of Mongolia’s cultural heritage and reflects the country’s pastoral lifestyle.
The Controversial Directive
The official letter sent to schools and families called for the preparation and consumption of Bituu Shul to “solemnly celebrate this historic day, create a festive atmosphere, and instill a tradition of cooking dishes expressing national pride.” It also tasked schools with assigning students homework to make and eat the soup with their families.
The initiative has sparked widespread criticism online and in the media, with many arguing it oversteps boundaries and trivializes a significant national holiday.
Public Backlash
Critics have pointed out several issues with the initiative:
1. Government Overreach: Many feel that instructing families on what to cook crosses into private matters and is an unnecessary directive for such a significant day.
2. Economic Concerns: Given the economic struggles faced by many families, some question whether preparing traditional dishes like Bituu Shul is feasible for everyone.
3. Misplaced Priorities: Critics argue that the government should focus on addressing pressing social and economic challenges rather than prescribing celebratory meals.
A notable comment circulating on social media reflects the frustration: “If there’s no work to do, or they can no longer think of anything else, they will go to the pot of each family and teach them what to cook through their children.”
Official Justification
The letter describes the initiative as a way to foster national pride and preserve cultural traditions, urging families and food providers to embrace Bituu Shul as a centerpiece of Republic Day celebrations.
The Debate Continues
As November 26 approaches, the debate surrounding the initiative shows no signs of subsiding. Whether the directive will achieve its intended goal of promoting national unity or simply fuel further public discontent remains to be seen.
This controversy raises larger questions about the role of cultural initiatives in governance and how traditions should be preserved and celebrated in a rapidly modernizing society.
