Famous eagle huntress aims to promote falconry traditions

Famous eagle huntress aims to promote falconry traditions

Excerpts from documentary «The Eagle Huntress»

This excerpt is from a film about a young berkutchi (eagle huntress). The story of 13-year-old Kazakh girl Aisholpan captivated audiences around the world. The documentary, directed by American filmmaker Otto Bell, was screened in 30 countries and won over viewers everywhere. After the film’s release, Aisholpan’s life has changed a lot. In acknowledgment of her bravery, she received accolades in New York. Now, she is eager to contribute to the development of tourism in Turkistan.

«Since childhood, I have grown up alongside a golden eagle. My brother was a berkutchi, and when he went into the army, he left his eagle to me. I began practicing this art at the age of eight. Thanks to the film about my story, I’ve had the opportunity to visit 32 countries,» shared eagle huntress Aisholpan Nurgaiyp.

Promoting national values is what Aisholpan strives for. To this end, she is opening a falconry museum in an ethno-village in ancient Turkistan, where she aims to popularize this traditional art.

«Aisholpan has a pure soul. I think it’s because she is close to nature. She embodies the purity of the natural world. Those who grow up in the mountains develop a stronger spirit,» said teacher of Aisholpan Nurgaiyp Bayan Kerimbekova.

Last year, Aisholpan moved to Kazakhstan with her family. She received a diploma majoring in Kazakh language and literature. Today, the girl combines teaching with the art of berkutchi.