Baktybү Zhanlyshova, a teacher of the Kyrgyz language and literature, spent a long time collecting materials about her life to preserve the memory of her feat.
Tepkedei's father-in-law, Tursunbek Ibraimov, also endured difficult times, having been arrested during the repressions, but he preserved many memories reflecting that era.
Tepkedei Sarala kyzy, born in 1902, became a symbol of survival and the struggle for freedom, which she recounted to Tursunbek, who recorded her memories.
Her story begins with the flight to China in 1916, when 42 families left their homes in search of refuge from the repressions of the tsarist authorities.
Despite the hardships, Tepkedei remained resilient, enduring numerous trials, including being sold into marriage, and eventually returned to her loved ones to regain her family.
The fate of Tepkedei is not just a story of suffering, but also of hope, love, and strength of spirit, which continue to inspire new generations.
Her life and struggle remain significant for the Kyrgyz people and highlight the importance of preserving historical memory.
