Inmates in Kyrgyzstan compete in reciting epic 'Manas'

Convicts in Kyrgyzstan recently competed in a unique contest focused on reciting the national epic, "Manas." The event, named "My Motto is Manas," took place within the institutions of the State Penitentiary Service. Participants engaged in performing the heroic battle cries of Manas, a central figure in Kyrgyz folklore.

According to the State Penitentiary Service, this competition was integrated into a broader two-month program called "Immortal Heritage, Unquenchable Spirit." This initiative was organized to coincide with Kyrgyzstan's Independence Day and the VI World Nomad Games. Throughout the program's duration, artists from the Kyrgyz National "Manas" Theater conducted master classes and held meetings within the penitentiary institutions, focusing on the spiritual significance of the epic.

Teams of inmates from various regions across the country participated in the "My Motto is Manas" contest. The team from institution No. 8 secured the first place. Second place was a tie between institutions No. 27, 16, and 10, while third place was shared by institutions No. 2, 31, 14, and 19. Winners were recognized with diplomas and monetary prizes. The prize money will be allocated to support the needs of the inmates within the State Penitentiary Service institutions.

The program's overarching goals are to strengthen patriotism among the inmates, encourage their engagement with national values, and facilitate their resocialization back into society. The initiative highlights efforts to use cultural heritage as a tool for rehabilitation and national identity building within the correctional system.