As part of the implementation of the presidential decree "Uluu Dem – Dүйнөлүк бийиктик" [“National Spirit - Global Heights”], a special group of mentors was created by the President's Administration, and the caravan "Ungu Jol" began its journey across the regions.
The mentors met with residents in the conference hall of the Panfilov district state administration. They spoke about the history of the nomadic Kyrgyz people, their customs, traditions, cultural heritage, as well as the public, social, and economic development of independent Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing the importance of national values.
The head of the mentor group, Gulnur Akmatova, noted that the caravan "Ungu Jol" intends to visit all districts and cities of the region to convey the content of the presidential decree "Uluu Dem – Dүйнөлүк бийиктик" to the population.
At the event, group member — writer, playwright, and Manas scholar Nazira Jumaan Chaa — captured the participants' attention by asking them a provocative question: "What distinguishes the Kyrgyz from other peoples?"
“What distinguishes the Kyrgyz from others? Other peoples also have traditions. But we are distinguished by our history and culture. According to historical records, the Kyrgyz Khaganate existed as early as the 7th-8th centuries. This means we are descendants of an ancient, indigenous people,” she said, citing historical facts.
After that, she addressed the audience: “Which other people tied a chükö to the cradle? [the knee bone of a sheep or goat] Why was the child's left hand bandaged? How many types of chükö are there? What are the children's customs?”
Another group member, Atai Ableshkov, spoke on the topic "Nomads and the Environment," revealing the connection between humans and nature in traditional lifestyles.
“How do Kyrgyz and Kazakh nomads differ? While Kazakhs migrated when the fertility of the steppe decreased, Kyrgyz moved according to the seasons of the year. For example: ‘jazzdoo’ — spring pasture, ‘zhayloo’ — summer, ‘kuzdoo’ — autumn, ‘kyshtoo’ — wintering,” he explained, detailing the characteristics of each period. He also talked about the names of the months, norms of behavior, and traditions, providing examples.
Caravan members Seyitkan Abdrayimov and Tilek Asanaliev presented stories about national values. The event concluded with an exchange of opinions, questions, and answers, after which the caravan continued its work.
