Issyk-Kul, Sept. 3, 2026 /Kabar/. Altai director, playwright, storyteller, and Honored Artist of Russia Nogon (Nikolay) Shumarov is participating in the cultural program of the VI World Nomad Games in Cholpon-Ata. This time, he is performing as a musician, presenting the ancient traditional instrument, the jadagan, and conducting master classes.
As he told reporters in an interview, his connection with Kyrgyzstan began long before the current Games. Previously, Nogon Shumarov traveled the country for three months, staging his plays, including a production of Chyngyz Aitmatov's "Mother's Field."
A personal meeting with the writer holds a special place in his memories.
"I met Chyngyz Aitmatov. He gave me his autographed book, 'When Mountains Fall,'" the artist shared.
Today, Shumarov is back in Kyrgyzstan, this time as a contestant at the Nomad Games, introducing audiences to the musical culture of Altai.
The main instrument of his performance was the jadagan. According to the musician, this ancient instrument was found in the Karakol Valley of Altai.
"This instrument is about three thousand years old. About 2,600 years ago, it was buried in a burial mound. I mastered this instrument and am now the only person in Altai who plays it. In addition to performing, I conduct master classes here, telling participants and guests about the jadagan and its traditions," he said.
