Local news / Cultural news / Exclusive

Kyrgyz singer Azat Raimberdiev proposed to his girlfriend on stage at the show "Well, Everyone Together!"

On the stage of the popular Russian show "Well, Everyone Together!" Kyrgyz singer Azat Raimberdiev proposed to his girlfriend. This event took place during the seventh episode of the seventh season, which aired on October 24. Raimberdiev, a finalist of the fifth season of the program, spoke his words after the performance of Djamila Khabibullina from Kazan, noting the beauty of her name, which is associated with the works of the famous writer Chyngyz Aitmatov.

25.10.2025, 12:47

Local news / Cultural news

The first volume of the encyclopedia "Atai Ogonbaev" was presented at the National Library.

On October 24, a presentation of the first volume of the encyclopedia dedicated to the outstanding komuz player, singer, and composer Atai Ogonbaev took place at the National Library named after Alykul Osmonov. This event was timed to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the artist, who is a People's Artist of the Kyrgyz SSR. According to the press service of the Ministry of Culture, the event was attended by the First Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy, Suizbek

25.10.2025, 12:36

Local news / Cultural news

The premiere of the play "Uncle's Dream" will take place at the Bishkek City Drama Theater.

From November 7 to 9, the premiere of the play "Uncle's Dream," based on the famous novella by Fyodor Dostoevsky, will take place on the stage of the Bishkek City Drama Theater named after Arsen Umuraliev. According to the theater's information, the production is directed by Ulanmyrza Karypbaev, with set design by Sadyr Niyazakunov and costume design by Zuhra Mukambetova. The choreography is developed by Rezeda Gayanova from St. Petersburg.

25.10.2025, 11:28

Local news / Cultural news / Exclusive

The II International Forum of Youth of the Turkic World Took Place in Bishkek. Photos

The II International Forum of Youth of the Turkic World was held at the Kyrgyz National University, as reported by the press service of the Ministry of Culture. About 200 young people from various countries, including Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, participated in the forum. The event featured prominent figures such as the Secretary General of TURKSOY Sultan Raev, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy Marat Tagaev, the Ambassador of Turkey to Kyrgyzstan Mekin

25.10.2025, 10:13

Cultural news

Bishkek City Drama Theater invites you to the premiere of the play based on Dostoevsky's novella

From November 7 to 9, this performance will take place on the theater stage, which has received support from the Ministry of Culture of Russia and the organization "Russian Seasons," as reported by the theater. The plot of "Uncle's Dream" is a vivid provincial anecdote that Dostoevsky develops into an extensive gallery of characters and morals. This work is one of the most outstanding satirical pieces, in which the author boldly exposes the hypocrisy and despotism

24.10.2025, 09:25

Cultural news

Beauty Contest Among Grandmothers

A beauty contest among grandmothers took place in Bishkek The capital hosted the national beauty contest "Grandmother of the Year," reported the organizer of the beauty competition, Ryskul Namazbekova. The event took place the day before at one of the establishments in Bishkek.

15.03.2021, 15:16

Cultural news

The film "Cat" by a fourteen-year-old Kyrgyz girl made it to the shortlist at a festival in Italy.

The film "Kat" by 15-year-old Kyrgyz girl Alina Koshmatova The artistic short film "Kat" by 15-year-old Kyrgyz girl Alina Koshmatova has made it to the shortlist of the international Corti a Ponte Short Film Festival, which has been held in Italy since 2008. “Our daughter Alina's creativity continues to conquer international film festivals! The Corti a Ponte Short Film Festival is a festival in Italy aimed at film education and engaging audiences of all ages.

21.05.2020, 16:13

Cultural news

Emir Kusturica Plans to Make a Film About Genghis Khan Based on a Book by Chinghiz Aitmatov

Kusturica plans to make a film about Genghis Khan based on Aitmatov's book Film director Emir Kusturica announced that he plans to make a film about the Khan of the Mongol Empire, Genghis Khan. “I currently have an idea to make a film about Genghis Khan, a huge film about how one person, who was not loved here and in the West, is portrayed,” Kusturica told reporters during the international film festival "Hero and Time" in Zheleznovodsk.

11.08.2019, 13:11

Cultural news

An Unusual Wedding Took Place in the Issyk-Kul Region. Video

How Russians Celebrated Their Wedding at Issyk-Kul According to Kyrgyz Traditions. An unusual wedding took place in the Issyk-Kul region — two citizens of Russia celebrated their wedding according to Kyrgyz traditions. The wedding of 68-year-old traveler Valentin Efremov and his 31-year-old fiancée Ekaterina was held on the shore of the lake in Cholpon-Ata.

30.06.2019, 12:22

Cultural news

The film "Darakh Iry" won the Grand Prix at the film festival in Russia.

A Film from Kyrgyzstan Became the Best at the Muslim Film Festival On April 30, the results of the fifteenth festival "Cinema for Children" in Samara (Russia) were announced, which is held annually in Kazan. The Grand Prix, the main prize of the film festival, was awarded to a film considered the first Kyrgyz musical — "Darak Yry," or in Russian translation "Song of the Tree," directed by Aibek Daiyrbekov. The competition program featured 16 films made by

20.05.2019, 18:30

Cultural news

Osh Celebrates Its 3018th Anniversary

At the symposium "Dialogue of Cultures in the Ancient City," two individuals received commendation certificates from the Parliament On October 4, an international scientific and practical symposium titled "Dialogue of Cultures in the Ancient City of Osh" was held at Osh State University, dedicated to the celebration of the city's 3018th anniversary. During the event, welcoming speeches were made by the chairman of the city council, Japarbek Ormonov, the vice-mayor of

05.10.2018, 22:22

Cultural news

An Exhibition of Paintings is Taking Place at the Alykul Osmonov National Library

Exhibition of Paintings "The Influence of Bad Habits" An exhibition of paintings titled "Зыяндуу адаттардын кесепеттери" ("The Influence of Bad Habits") is taking place at the Alykul Osmonov National Library. According to the library's press service, the exhibition was organized by the "Green Moon Society" and the Bishkek City Hall. The exhibition features paintings by cartoonist artists from various countries such as Turkey, Iran, China, Brazil,

05.10.2018, 21:28

Cultural news

Days of Cinema of Turkic-speaking Countries in Bishkek

The Days of Cinema of Turkic-speaking Countries are taking place for the first time in Bishkek. Five films are presented at the festival. These include the Azerbaijani film "Red Garden," the Kazakh film "Oralman," and the Turkish films "Wheat" and "Ayla." The competition was opened by the Kyrgyz melodrama "Night Battle," which won the Grand Prix at the international film festival in Estonia. “This event is of great significance for all of us.

15.09.2018, 19:37

Cultural news

The sex symbol of the USSR arrived at Issyk-Kul.

Sex Symbol of the USSR Elena Kondulainen Arrived at Issyk-Kul. E. Kondulainen recently turned 60 years old. She arrived for the Russian Film Week taking place in the Issyk-Kul region. E. Kondulainen performed there not only as an actress: she sang several of her own songs for the audience. The star was awarded a medal and given the title of "Best Cultural Worker of Kyrgyzstan." The artist decided to combine pleasure with business and went for a swim in the country's most famous

28.07.2018, 18:38

Cultural news

Russian Film Week in Kyrgyzstan

“Russian Film Week” From July 19 to 25, “Russian Film Week” will take place in the cities of Cholpon-Ata (Issyk-Kul region) and Kant (Chui region), during which the Honored Artist of the RSFSR, laureate of the State Prize of the USSR Natalia Arinbasarova will present the film “The First Teacher” to the guests. The event is organized by the “ELS” production center, with the partnership of the Cholpon-Ata city administration.

15.07.2018, 22:00

Cultural news

Kyrgyz Cafe in the Top 10 Establishments of Moscow

The Guardian noted the "Cafe at the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Russian Federation". The authoritative British publication The Guardian has included the Kyrgyz cafeteria at the Embassy of Kyrgyzstan in Russia in the top 10 establishments in Moscow. Gourmets selected ten best establishments from 12,000 cafes and restaurants in the capital, with the "Cafe at the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Russian Federation" earning an honorable mention.

15.07.2018, 21:48

Cultural news

Comedy Battle: Nazgul Ailchinova from Bishkek went straight to the finals of Comedy Battle 2018

Kyrgyzstani Nazgul Ailchinova became a participant in the Russian comedy stand-up show "Comedy Battle," which airs on the TNT channel, and made it to the semifinals. In Bishkek, she is the only female representative among stand-up comedians and a mother of three children. In "Comedy Battle," the main themes of her performances revolve around family relationships, her husband and children, household chores, and the problems women face. For many participants, the Comedy

26.05.2018, 09:54

Cultural news

Victory Day in 2018 in Kyrgyzstan: The History of the "Immortal Regiment"

“I came out of Osh to walk across the republic” Osh coordinator of the “Immortal Regiment” movement, Alena SMIRNOVA: — The first march of the “Immortal Regiment” in our republic took place in the Southern capital. Students of the Orthodox school “Light” took to the streets of the city with portraits of their veteran grandfathers. It is important to emphasize that the residents of Osh participated in the Victory Parade with portraits of their veterans back in 2012, under the slogan “Forever

06.05.2018, 14:52

Cultural news

The cities of Osh and Yaroslavl signed a Protocol on Strengthening and Developing Bilateral Relations.

Osh Wins in the "Interethnic Relations" Nomination at the International Forum of Best Municipal Practices On April 11, the anniversary V International Forum of "Best Municipal Practices" kicked off in Bishkek. As part of the forum, the mayors of Osh, Kyrgyzstan, Aitmamad Kadyrbaev, and Yaroslavl, Russia, signed a Protocol of Intent for the development and strengthening of bilateral relations in various areas, including cultural, humanitarian, and economic cooperation in the

12.04.2018, 19:54

Cultural news

From Indie Music Festival to Mad Metal Festival

Musicians of Kyrgyzstan Create a Unified Creative Community Musicians from various bands in Bishkek have decided to unite and promote quality and original music "Made in KG" on the stages of the city, country, and region. The music community already includes about 10 bands of different genres, and any willing group can become a part of it, regardless of the language of the songs, genre, or creative experience. Under the auspices of the association, several events have already taken

07.04.2018, 13:17

Cultural news

Kyrgyz Lullabies for a Deeper Sleep

The results of the Republican lullaby song contest have been announced in Bishkek — the jury identified the top 15. The event gathered women from seven regions of the republic to revive forgotten melodies and songs. Some participants of the contest, organized by the international public fund "Rosa Otunbayeva Initiative," performed well-known folk compositions, while others sang their own original songs. The Sputnik Kyrgyzstan agency invited the winners to its studio to listen to the

17.03.2018, 20:44

Cultural news

Soloist of the group "Gorod 312" Svetlana Nazarenko (Aya) will sing in Kyrgyz.

The soloist of the popular group "Gorod 312," Svetlana Nazarenko (Aya), and the honored artist of the Kyrgyz Republic, Zhyldyz Osmonalieva, have recorded the soundtrack for the first Kyrgyz musical "Darak yry" ("Song of the Tree"), the press service of the Ministry of Culture, Information and Tourism reported. In the coming days, the song will be presented to the people of Kyrgyzstan, and the premiere of the film-musical "Darak yry" will take place on

24.02.2018, 16:59

News / Cultural news

The game of kok-boru from Kyrgyzstan has been included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list.

The traditional horseback game of kok-boru has been included in the representative list of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage. This decision was made at the 12th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, which is taking place from December 4 to 9 on Jeju Island (South Korea). In addition to Kyrgyzstan, 33-34 new applications for popular customs and forms of creativity will be considered at the meeting: Armenia's proposal

16.12.2017, 23:20

News / Cultural news

In Sweden, the novel by Sulatan Raev received the Grand Prix.

In Sweden, S. Raev's novel received the Grand Prix The novel "The Flood" by the people's writer of Kyrgyzstan, Sulatan Raev, was awarded the Grand Prix in the "major prose" category at the Open Eurasian Book Forum & L Festival-2017 (OEBF-2017), which is taking place this year in Sweden.

19.11.2017, 01:16

News / Cultural news

18-year-old Ulan captivated the residents of Ankara with his talent

18-year-old Ulan captivated the residents of Ankara with his talent Eighteen-year-old Ulan from Jeti-Oguz plays the komuz virtuously, performs songs in the ethnic style, and participates in various competitions. A fourth-year student at the Issyk-Kul Music College (Department of Folk Instruments and Dastan) named after Ibrai Tumanov, Ulan Ismailov is gaining popularity in the region despite his young age. “I started attending komuz classes at the Sherimbek Sharshiev Music School in the village

12.11.2017, 19:50

Cultural news

"The Case of the Mummy"

"The Case of the Mummy" The Minister of Culture of Kyrgyzstan, Tugelbay Kazakov, who ordered the burial of the mummy from the State Museum, has been relieved of his position. The corresponding decree was signed by the head of state, Almazbek Atambaev.

28.10.2017, 23:35

Cultural news

Soloists of the Bolshoi Theatre will perform on the stage of the M. Maldybaev Opera and Ballet Theatre.

At the Kyrgyz National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet named after A. Maldybaev, preparations are underway to welcome guests from Moscow. On its stage, on March 19, in the ballet "Swan Lake," the soloists of the Bolshoi Theatre, prima ballerina and People's Artist of Russia Maria Allash, and the principal dancer of the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia, Honored Artist of Russia Alexander Volchkov, will perform. Maria Allash is a People's Artist of Russia and prima ballerina of

04.03.2016, 16:27

Cultural news

"Fifty Shades of Chekhov" was staged in Bishkek.

On Valentine's Day, the State National Russian Drama Theater named after Ch. Aitmatov will present a new production on its stage. The play, intriguingly titled ‘50 Shades of Chekhov’, was staged by the ‘Gala Theater’ under the direction of actress Galina Ketova from the Russian Drama Theater. The production is practically timed to coincide with the 156th anniversary of the birth of the prose writer and playwright, and according to its creators, it is a declaration of love for his work and

12.02.2016, 12:12

Cultural news

Archaeological Monuments — The Foundation for the Reconstruction of Ancient History of Kyrgyzstan

Archaeological monuments have undeniable significance in the study of history, especially when it comes to scientifically substantiating certain facts. Thanks to the preserved and surviving burial mounds, balbals, and epigraphic inscriptions on tombs, we can confidently reproduce some historical events and compare them with official written sources. Burial sites deserve special attention from researchers, as they tell about the spiritual and cultural heritage of the people.

11.02.2016, 22:15

Cultural news

The Great Classic Presented Itself to the People of Kyrgyzstan in a New Edition

At the Kyrgyz National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet named after Maldybaev, the audience was delighted by a premiere. On January 31, its artists presented the updated ballet "Swan Lake" by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. "Swan Lake" is perhaps the only classical work known not only to ballet enthusiasts but also to those who have never been to the theater or heard classical music. The plot is based on an ancient legend about the love of Prince Siegfried and the swan maiden

04.02.2016, 12:57

Cultural news

How does an artist live in Kyrgyzstan?

Art, particularly painting, is going through tough times in the Kyrgyz Republic. However, despite all the difficulties, local masters of the brush continue to work. Their works can be seen at exhibitions and displays. The creativity of artist Jumabek Bazarbaev serves as an illustration of dedication to one's craft in the realities of modern Kyrgyzstan. Last week, an exhibition of easel painting titled "Karash 2" took place in Bishkek, featuring works by two local artists -

03.02.2016, 10:57

Cultural news

An Evening in Memory of the Outstanding Dancer Cholponbek Bazarbaev to Be Held in Bishkek

The Kyrgyz National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet named after A. Maldybaev is preparing for an evening in memory of the outstanding dancer, People's Artist of the USSR Cholponbek Bazarbaev. On Thursday, February 4, soloists and ballet artists will take to the stage in his honor, as well as students from the Bishkek Choreographic School, which bears his name. For more than twenty years, Cholponbek Bazarbaev was the premier of the national ballet troupe. His creative repertoire

01.02.2016, 17:03

Cultural news

A Young Kyrgyzstani Won the Grand Prize in a Russian Literary Competition

Fifteen-year-old resident of Kyrgyzstan Ermek Turdubekov took first place in the Russian literary club competition "Your First Book." This was reported on the official page of the literary club. A total of 32 works were submitted to the competition. The jury members, professional writers, selected the best pieces. Ermek Turdubekov won first place with his stories "Web" and "The Untold Story." Maxim Tikhonov came in second with the work "Where Dreams

28.01.2016, 11:45

Cultural news

The Soloists of the World Opera Stage Will Perform in Bishkek for the First Time

On February 11, the Soloists of the World Opera Scene will perform in Bishkek for the first time at the A. Maldybaev Opera and Ballet Theater. They have conquered the most famous stages in the world - La Scala, Covent Garden, Carnegie Hall, Vienna Opera.... Conductor Manfred Hermann Lehner, soprano Jamila Raimbekova, and tenor Gary Davislim will perform works by G. Verdi, G. Puccini, G. Bizet, P. Mascagni, and G. Rossini from outstanding operas such as La Traviata, La forza del destino,

25.01.2016, 14:57

Cultural news

"Swan Lake" to be presented in a new edition in Bishkek

The Kyrgyz National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet named after Maldybaev is preparing for the premiere. On January 31, its artists will present the updated ballet "Swan Lake" by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. The audience can expect new sets and costumes, as well as previously unperformed pages from the score of the work. The plot is based on an ancient legend about the love between Prince Siegfried and the swan maiden Odette, who has been cursed by an evil sorcerer. This love story, set

20.01.2016, 11:27

Cultural news

In Kyrgyzstan, a hit by "The Beatles" was performed in the Kyrgyz language.

The rock band from Bishkek, "The Rolls Band," performed their song "And I Love Her" in Kyrgyz in honor of World Beatles Day. The cover band "The Rolls Band," founded in 2010, specializes in performing songs by "The Beatles," "The Rolling Stones," Elvis Presley, and others. The lineup of this musical group is as follows: Ulan Omorov – vocals, harmonica, Ersultan Alykulov – vocals, bass guitar, Daniyar Jumanzarov – vocals, guitar, Dmitry Sosedov

20.01.2016, 10:27

Cultural news

Artists of Issyk-Kul Present…

The Union of Artists of Karakol, in collaboration with the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts named after Gapar Aitiev, is holding a jubilee exhibition "Ak Chardak," dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the Union of Artists of Karakol. The exhibition features all forms of visual art – painting, graphics, sculpture, photography, as well as decorative and applied arts.

03.01.2016, 14:40

Cultural news

Musical Gift from Sand!

In the days leading up to the New Year, real miracles happen. And on the eve of the holiday, the State Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra of Kyrgyzstan invited all lovers of classical music to a unique concert titled "Music of Sand." This event became a New Year’s gift for all residents of Bishkek. The concert truly became a real miracle. Before the eyes of the audience, sand paintings were born. The program featured works by contemporary Western European composers, new orchestral

29.12.2015, 20:27

Cultural news

The Main Snow Maiden of the Country

“Tell me, Snow Maiden, where have you been? Tell me, dear, how are you?” - each of the modern Lady Snow would answer these questions from a famous children's song with an interesting story. Our guest today is no exception – perhaps the most famous Snow Maiden in Kyrgyzstan. The incredibly charming and talented actress Galina Ketova. - Galina, tell me, is it difficult to play the role of the Snow Maiden? - To be honest, despite the challenges, I really love being the Snow Maiden. Just

29.12.2015, 20:06

Cultural news

Wishes from Santa Claus

Each of us tries to make the New Year celebration unforgettable and to bring a miracle to our loved ones. That's why we buy original gifts and invite Santa Claus to our homes. Looking at the wonderful artist Vladimir Belkin, anyone, even the most hardened skeptic, will start believing in miracles and in the fairy-tale hero himself. Vladimir Vladimirovich is a true Santa Claus, from the embroidered sparkling patterns on his fur coat to the magical tone of his voice. He amazes not only

29.12.2015, 20:06

Cultural news

"Antre" - a circus on stage!

Circus! How much joy, happiness, and magic is contained in this word, along with bright childhood memories. Of course, each of us loves the circus in our own way. But performances in this genre are not only a multi-hour program under the dome of a famous building in the very center of the capital, but also, undoubtedly, spectacular performances by creative groups in various corners of the country. Today, we would like to introduce our readers to the wonderful circus performers. Cheerful clowns

17.12.2015, 23:12

Cultural news

The Russian Drama Theater Celebrates Its 80th Anniversary

On that evening, all performances were canceled. On December 12, all admirers of theatrical art were invited to a unique event dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the State National Russian Drama Theater named after Chinghiz Aitmatov. In the lobby, guests were greeted by an exhibition that showcased the brightest performances of the past decades. From the photographs on the stands, People's Artists smiled down at the audience, and the yellowed posters seemed to invite them back to the

17.12.2015, 22:42

Cultural news

The City That Is Out of Focus

In the flow of our endless tasks, we rush from home to work, then to visit friends, and back home again. Every day we move through the same streets, paying no attention to our surroundings. Thus, the city itself remains out of our focus. An initiative group decided to engage the citizens and guests of the capital in exploring Bishkek itself.

17.12.2015, 22:12

Cultural news

To the Mourner by Science

The second half of the outgoing 2015 year, in addition to the elections for a new composition of the Jogorku Kenesh, was marked by heated discussions in scientific and quasi-scientific circles about the state of science in the republic as a whole and the fate of the Academy of Sciences in particular. There were even proposals to abolish the Academy. However, everything ended with a productive compromise. The authorities agreed that the Academy should be preserved as the highest state scientific

17.12.2015, 21:57

Cultural news

In Kyrgyzstan, the screening of the Kazakh film "Region 13" has been banned.

In Kyrgyzstan, the criminal drama "Region 13," filmed in Kazakhstan and discussing the revolutions in Kyrgyzstan and Ukraine, has been banned from being shown. The decision to prohibit the screening of this film was made by the October District Court of Bishkek.

17.12.2015, 15:03

Cultural news

In Kyrgyzstan, the best amateur vocalists have been chosen.

In Bishkek, at the "Studio 247" venue, the second amateur vocalist competition "I Can't Keep Quiet" concluded last Saturday, December 12. Participants had the opportunity to showcase their talent to professionals, receive recommendations for talent development, and win pleasant prizes. The final featured fifteen soloists of varying ages and experience levels. From little Alexandra Sannikova, who decided to delight the audience with her singing once again, to already

15.12.2015, 15:51

Cultural news

In Kyrgyzstan, the second amateur vocalists' contest "I Can't Keep Silent!" will be held.

Kyrgyz singing enthusiasts have the opportunity not only to showcase their talents in karaoke but also on a big stage. On Saturday, December 12, the final of the amateur vocalist contest 'I Can't Keep Silent' will take place. The audience will enjoy performances of modern and classical compositions in various languages, participants will affirm their status and receive memorable prizes, and producers will discover new 'stars'. The founder of 'I Can't Keep

10.12.2015, 12:39

Cultural news

An Artist from Kyrgyzstan Illustrated a Book by the Renowned Kazakh Poetess Raushan Burkitbaeva-Nukenova

“What’s the use of a book if there are no pictures or conversations in it?” – notes Alice in the cult work of Lewis Carroll. And as practice shows, a well-designed and illustrated artistic publication is favored not only by children but also by adults. As they say, aesthetics in art has not been canceled by anyone. During the London literary festival “Open Eurasia and Central Asia book forum and literature festival,” which took place from November 6 to 9, a collection of poems by Kazakh

07.12.2015, 17:15