“Bakayyr” Film Screening & Musical Performance

UCA's Cultural Heritage and Humanities Unit presents a screening of the short documentary film “Bakayyr” directed by Daniyar Abirov. The film explores contemporary practices of preserving and continuing musical cultural heritage.

Film Synopsis:

From an early age, Kulmat dreamed of a place where one could not only immerse oneself in the world of the Manas epic, but also hear what lies deeper — to touch the sacred, the memory of ancestors, and one’s inner voice. The protagonists of the film are young girls who came to this school. Through sound, silence, and their own doubts, they gradually discover Kyrgyz traditional music — not as a craft, but as a state of soul.

As part of the screening, there will also be a musical performance on the komuz by the film’s protagonists, followed by a discussion with guests.

This event offers a valuable insight into how private regional initiatives aimed at reviving and continuing the traditional ustat-shakirt (master-apprentice) institution are gaining new meaning and inspiration across the country. This film project was implemented with the support of the Worldwide Indigenous Science Network (WISN) in collaboration with CHHU and UCA.

We are delighted to invite all guests to this important creative gathering for the exchange of thoughts, ideas, and inspiration.