Congratulations from the Rector of Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev, Professor A. T. Abdraeva, on Ak Kalpak Day
Dear compatriots, colleagues, and students!
Since ancient times, the Kyrgyz people have honored and valued headwear. A person’s status, dignity, social position, and age were often determined by the type of headwear they wore. The etiquette of wearing a headdress was carefully observed, reflecting a person’s state, actions, and emotions.
In particular, the Ak Kalpak is one of the national values that defines the identity of the Kyrgyz people, confirms their history, and encourages the upholding of honor and dignity. The Ak Kalpak symbolizes the Ala-Too mountains, representing purity, greatness, and courage. Every Kyrgyz child, raised with a deep respect for the sacred Ala-Too, wears the Ak Kalpak with pride, growing up with a sense of responsibility toward their homeland.
Our traditions dictate that we never throw the Ak Kalpak on the ground nor allow an enemy to seize it. The custom of placing an Ak Kalpak on our accomplished sons as a symbol of success and encouraging them toward great deeds continues to this day.
Passed down as a legacy from our ancestors, the Ak Kalpak inspires every Kyrgyz citizen, fills their heart with pride, and accompanies them on long journeys and distant travels. Thus, the Ak Kalpak is not just a headwear—it is the foundation of our national values and a symbol of our cultural heritage.
Dear compatriots, may the Ak Kalpak, which glorifies the greatness of our nation, always remain upon your heads. Happy Ak Kalpak Day!
