In the very heart of the Ton district of the Issyk-Kul region lies the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, which has become a true center for the production of the famous Kyrgyz yurts — boz-uy. The craftsmen from this village have long gained recognition not only in the country but also beyond its borders. Their works can be seen in Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, as well as in the interiors of homes in the USA, Canada, and Italy.
Dulat Imanakunov, one of the most renowned craftsmen, has been creating yurts since 1989. He proudly demonstrates the work process, where every detail matters. He purchases wood and chi from neighboring districts and makes the leather threads himself. According to him, if all the materials are at hand, it takes him only five to six days to assemble one yurt. Last year, he received an order from two sheikhs from Saudi Arabia for 15 yurts, which were sent to Mecca.
The craftsmen of Kyzyl-Tuu can impress even the most demanding clients. For example, in one of the yards, you can see a unique kerege of an unusual green color. While traditionally the frame of yurts is painted red or varnished, this specimen was the result of a special order from an Italian designer. The craftsmen skillfully adapt ancient traditions to modern requirements while maintaining the high quality of their products.
Tynchibek Asanbekov, the head of the cultural center of the village, emphasizes that most of the raw materials for yurt production are found by local residents in the region. Their dream is to open a felt production factory right in Kyzyl-Tuu, as they currently have to travel to Bishkek for it. Despite this, the interest in the craft allows the youth to stay in their native village, and labor migration is virtually absent here. While waiting for large orders, the craftsmen of Kyzyl-Tuu hope that their yurts will become a highlight of the upcoming World Nomad Games.
Author: Suyunbek SHASHIEV
Video: Zholboldu BAISAEV
Source: silunews.kg
