Kymkaptai has five children and fourteen grandchildren.
“I was born in 1961 in the village of Shapak. At that time, my paternal grandfather went to the market to buy necessary items for the home. He came across brocade—a silk fabric known in Kyrgyz as ‘kymkap.’ Grandfather bought a piece of fabric specifically for me, as such luxury was only available to wealthy people back then. He wanted me to be happy and valued, so he decided to name me Kymkaptai,” she shared.
Kymkaptai noted that those around her often express surprise and ask about her unusual name.
“Many acquaintances do not know my full name. Only my closest ones do. After finishing school, I got a job at a sewing factory, where I was called Kymka or Kymbat. When I met my future husband, I introduced myself as Kymbat. Those who hear my real name often inquire about its meaning,” she said.
Kymkaptai is engaged in handicrafts.
“In my childhood, I sewed clothes for dolls. As I grew older, I switched to patchwork sewing. I prepared a dowry for my youngest daughter. I participate in festivals held in our district and receive orders. I have mastered the ‘gül kurak’ technique and want to teach it to my daughter-in-law,” she added.
