Final answer:
The Kyrgyz community is culturally rich with a strong attachment to their nomadic past and traditional practices like storytelling and improvisational oral poetry. The community has faced challenges transitioning from Soviet rule to independence, culminating in a mix of local and Russian cultural influences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Kyrgyz community is a representation of local groups in the mountains of Central Asia. The population of Kyrgyzstan comprises various small enclaves and exclaves with a complex social history. The country transitioned from a Soviet republic to an independent nation, which wasn't smooth due to the collapse of the state social safety net, pushing the economy towards the informal sector where trading and small transactions are essential for survival. The Kyrgyz people value their history and culture, evident in their respect for traditional storytellers called manaschi who recite epic legends at local festivals. In addition, the Kyrgyz flag, featuring 40 rays of sun, symbolizes the legendary 40 tribes of Manas that represent the nation.
Most of the population has a strong connection with the nomadic heritage of Central Asia, with cultural traditions still prevalent today. However, there is also a mix of local and Russian influence due to the significant Russian settlements during Soviet rule. The challenges the Kyrgyz community has faced include the shift from nomadic lifestyles to collective farming, political conflicts resulting in casualties and displacements, and attempts at integration into the global economy through modernization. Traditional aspects such as the improvisational oral poetry manifest through lyrical battles remain important, and the epic poem Manas is a renowned part of the culture.