Queen of the Mountains

In 1816 a cave fortune teller prophesies that Kurmanjan will be worth ten sons, foreshadowing a destiny marked by courage and leadership. The striking tiger imagery opens a life where danger and resilience accompany her steps.

Shortly after, she is married off and moves into her husband’s yurt. She asserts her will, resists the advances of her husband’s friend, and when danger escalates, she flees on horseback back to her family.

She accepts a second marriage to Alymbek Datka, whose leadership is burdened by Kokand taxes that threaten Kyrgyz autonomy. Alymbek dreams of united tribes, a goal that draws him into contact with Jantai and the idea of a grand Assembly.

Alymbek's vision leads to discussions with Jantai, the northern khan, as plans for a unifying Assembly emerge. The proposal to gather all Kyrgyz tribes sets the stage for a political showdown with Kokand.

News of the Assembly and Kyrgyz unity reaches the Kokand Khan, who retaliates by ordering Alymbek’s murder and casting a long shadow over the Alai valley. Treachery and political intrigue tighten around Kurmanjan as she becomes a target.

Conspiracies close in on Kurmanjan, forcing another flight aided by a protective tiger that seems to mark her survival. She moves through danger back toward her family as her resolve is repeatedly tested.

As Kokand's invasion looms, the people of the Alai valley must decide how to respond to the threat to their fragile unity. The encroaching forces put pressure on leaders and villagers alike to defend their homes.

Kurmanjan arrives to rally the women of her tribe and help fortify a crucial mountain pass. Her stirring speech invokes national myth and resilience, inspiring the men to stand and defend their land.

The emir returns the body and head of the killer and proclaims Kurmanjan datka, signaling a shift in leadership. The Alai people begin to govern themselves with greater autonomy and a redefined authority.

Russian influence grows as General Mikhail Skobelev engages with Kurmanjan to negotiate terms. The deals aim to return seized lands, free prisoners, and grant the Alai greater self-rule and religious autonomy.

One son, Abdyldabek, is exiled to Afghanistan, where he ultimately dies, highlighting the personal costs borne by Kurmanjan’s family. The political turmoil leaves lasting scars on the dynasty.

Tensions with Russians flare under Skobelev's successor, and Kamchybek becomes entangled in the ongoing conflict. Kurmanjan stands with armed rebels, yet ultimately allows an execution to proceed, a stark reminder of the sacrifices required for national survival.

The closing image shows Kyrgyz children gathered before their yurts, with Kurmanjan riding proudly—a symbol of resilience and national identity. The scene links a mother's steadfast leadership to the birth of a nation, echoing a famous photograph and legacy.