Kyrgyzstan has recently made significant strides in promoting its rich cultural and historical heritage through a series of international publications and exhibitions. These events have showcased the country’s literary and artistic traditions to a global audience, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.
Key Takeaways
- Kyrgyzstan has translated and presented the Manas epic in multiple languages, including Uzbek and English.
- Exhibitions dedicated to the Manas epic have been held in South Korea, featuring various artistic and cultural displays.
- A book on young Kyrgyz poetry has been published in Azerbaijani, highlighting the literary talents of Kyrgyzstan’s youth.
- Belgium has transferred archival materials about the life and work of Chyngyz Aitmatov to Kyrgyzstan, including a never-published poem.
Manas Epic Translations and Presentations
In Osh, a presentation of the Manas epic translated into Uzbek was held as part of the international project “Osh – the cultural capital of the Turkic world.” The event featured a cultural program, a book exhibition, and performances by students and cultural workers. The translation was done by Uzbek writer and poet Zukhriddin Isomiddinov, who translated an abridged version of the epic by Beksultan Zhakiev.
In Bishkek, the Manas trilogy was presented in English at the National Library. The translation was carried out by Akylai Baimatova, a master’s student at the University of Montana. The event was attended by notable cultural figures, and the importance of translating the epic into foreign languages was emphasized.
Exhibition in South Korea
An exhibition dedicated to the Manas epic was opened in Gwangju, South Korea. Organized by the Center for Asian Culture with support from various Kyrgyz and Korean cultural institutions, the exhibition featured books, digitized paintings, and artistic displays related to the Manas epic and Kyrgyz cultural traditions. Workshops on traditional crafts and the installation of a mini-yurt were also part of the exhibition.
Kyrgyz Poetry in Azerbaijani
In Baku, an anthology of young Kyrgyz poetry was published in Azerbaijani. The book includes works by 35 young Kyrgyz poets, translated by 18 Azerbaijani literary scholars. The project was a collaborative effort between the Azerbaijani Embassy in Kyrgyzstan and various literary figures from both countries. The anthology aims to promote Kyrgyz literature and foster cultural ties between the two nations.
Archival Materials of Chyngyz Aitmatov
In Brussels, Belgium transferred archival materials about the life and work of renowned Kyrgyz writer Chyngyz Aitmatov to Kyrgyzstan. The materials include photos, audio and video recordings, and a never-published poem by Aitmatov. The transfer ceremony was attended by Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev, who expressed gratitude for the preservation and sharing of Aitmatov’s legacy. Some of the materials will be housed in the Aitmatov Museum, while others will be used for further research.
These initiatives highlight Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage on an international stage, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of its rich literary and artistic traditions.
Sources
- Presentation of book of Manas epic in Uzbek held in Osh, Кабар.
- Presentation of Manas trilogy in English takes place in Bishkek, Кабар.
- Exhibition dedicated to Manas epic opens in South Korea, Кабар.
- Book on Kyrgyz poetry published in Baku in Azerbaijani, Кабар.
- Belgium transfers Kyrgyz side materials about Chyngyz Aitmatov’s life including his never published poem, Кабар.
