In the Ton district of the Issyk-Kul region lies the unique village of Kyzyl-Tuu, where time seems to have stopped in the rhythm of creativity. Here, in almost every yard, the famous Kyrgyz yurts are created, known far beyond the borders of the republic. From this small village, yurts can be found in Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, as well as in the interiors of homes in the USA, Canada, and Italy.
Doolat Imanakunov, one of the masters of this ancient craft, began his work in 1989. He proudly demonstrates the process of making yurts, where every detail is of immense importance. He purchases wood and chi from neighboring districts, while he makes the threads from natural leather himself. Doolat notes that if all the materials are at hand, it takes him only five to six days to assemble one yurt. His craftsmanship has been highly appreciated — last year he sent 15 yurts to Mecca at the request of two sheikhs from Saudi Arabia.
The residents of Kyzyl-Tuu are capable of surprising even the most demanding clients. In a neighboring yard, one can see a unique green kerege — a special order from an Italian designer. The masters skillfully adapt traditions to modern trends while maintaining the high quality and soul of their products.
Tynchybek Asanbekov, the head of the local cultural center, emphasizes that almost all the raw materials are sourced from within the region. The dream of the masters is to open their own felt production factory in the village, as currently, they have to travel to Bishkek for quality materials. However, this does not prevent the youth from staying in Kyzyl-Tuu: the demand for the craft significantly reduces labor migration. The village is filled with anticipation for large orders, especially before the sixth World Nomad Games, where the masters are confident that their yurts will become the main attraction of the event.
Author: Suyunbek SHASHIEV
Video: Zholboldu BAISEEV
Source: silunews.kg
