Recently, a scientific and practical conference was held in the city of Manas, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Chyngyz Aitmatov and the 40th anniversary of the Issyk-Kul Forum.
According to Kapalbaev, national values are actively promoted within the framework of the doctrine "Uluu dem — düynölük biikdik" ("National Spirit - Global Heights"). He emphasized that it is important to maintain respect for cultural heritage and explained the significance of traditional Kyrgyz headwear.
Kapalbaev noted: "In the past, to convey bad news, a person was chosen who could do it delicately. Nowadays, negative information appears instantly on the internet, and concern for the feelings of others has almost disappeared. We too often judge others instead of delving into issues of national values."
"Ungu jol" is a legacy that has been passed down to us from our ancestors; however, modern young women often do not know its significance. For example, many do not understand that the elechek is not just a headpiece, but a part of their cultural identity. People wear it to participate in fashionable events without thinking about who should actually wear the elechek as a symbol of Kyrgyz women. Who should tie a scarf, and who should not? What are the rules for wearing the tebeetei? These traditions have been passed down from generation to generation, and unfortunately, many of them are being forgotten.
The white elechek is typically put on a woman by her mother-in-law, symbolizing her acceptance into the family and the continuation of the lineage. However, nowadays, many do not realize the importance and depth of this ritual.
Among the youth, it has become common to call each other "kempir" and "chal," although these terms have deep meanings among the Kyrgyz. "Kempir" refers to an elderly woman or a widow, while "chal" refers to an older man. It is important to remember that words carry meaning, and we need to pay attention to how we communicate. Kapalbaev emphasized that we should talk more about the positive and dignified, and not forget our cultural roots.
The elechek, the traditional headwear of Kyrgyz women, has been added to the UNESCO list of cultural heritage.
