In an interview with a Turmush correspondent, he shared that in recent years he has focused on beekeeping, producing honey that he successfully sells in the local market.
Irsaliev was born in this village and graduated from M.Elebaev School in 1979, after which he served in the Soviet army. Upon returning, he continued his education at vocational college No. 2 in Karakol. “After the army, I received a specialty in agriculture and began working at the Karakol Electrotechnical Plant from 1984 to 1987, combining work with studies at the technical school in the village of Ak-Bulun. Before the collapse of the USSR, I worked in state farms in various positions. After the collapse of the Union, when land distribution began, we started engaging in agriculture, but the autumn harvest was not enough for the entire winter. In 1996, I took up beekeeping for additional income,” he recounts.
According to Irsaliev, the first steps in beekeeping were not easy. “Every job has its pros and cons, and beekeeping was no exception. We faced difficulties and had to spend nights in the fields to collect honey. If you put in the effort, the result will be positive. Currently, we have 40-50 hives, and we sell honey at a price ranging from 250 to 300 soms per kilogram, to both local residents and visitors,” he adds. In the summer, he also grows raspberries and currants.
In 1989, Sagynbek got married and, together with his wife, raised six daughters. He is currently actively involved in athletics and participates in competitions.
Irsaliev became known for his skill in cutting meat for the traditional dish “beshbarmak.” “In our culture, honored guests are always treated to this dish. Previously, men would show how to properly cut meat using two knives, but this tradition has been forgotten. After returning from the army, I remembered this and decided to give it a try. In 1985, at the funeral of a local resident, the elders invited me and my friend to cut the meat. At first, we were a bit shy, but then, after we were provided with folding knives, we began to work. When I demonstrated my cutting technique, the elders were amazed,” he shares.
Sagynbek notes that he began to be invited to cut meat at weddings and other important events. “Once, when I was cutting meat for the matchmakers in Naryn, that video went viral on the internet, which led to my fame. In 2019, I was invited to the state residence ‘Ala-Archa’ to demonstrate my skills at the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, where leaders from 12 countries were present,” he recounts.
Irsaliev actively participates in events at both the district and regional levels, teaching the youth his skills. “At first glance, this may seem easy, but this activity has its secrets,” he emphasizes.
