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Kazakh actor Sherkhan Pirnazar has opened up about the significant challenges he faced during his student years and the crucial support he received from his mentor, the renowned actor Tungyshbay Zhamankulov. Pirnazar shared these poignant memories during an appearance on the "Night Studio" program.

Early Struggles in Almaty

Pirnazar recounted his move to Almaty in 2010, driven by his passion for acting after finishing high school. His initial enrollment in a military academy proved unsuitable, leading him to withdraw. Finding himself alone in a new city, the aspiring actor faced immense difficulties, struggling even to secure basic necessities like food and lodging. Later, he enrolled in college on a grant but left again, realizing the chosen specialization wasn't his true calling.

Tungyshbay Zhamankulov's Intervention

In 2012, following a friend's suggestion, Pirnazar decided to pursue acting at the arts academy. He auditioned for the workshop led by Tungyshbay Zhamankulov. Despite achieving high marks in the entrance exams, he did not secure a grant. Zhamankulov personally contacted Pirnazar, offering to cover his tuition fees for paid study. This generous offer deeply moved Pirnazar, who admitted to crying until morning upon hearing the news.

Ultimately, Zhamankulov's intervention led to a grant being allocated by the dean, allowing Pirnazar to enroll. The actor revealed that his mentor personally funded his entire four-year education.

Who is Tungyshbay Zhamankulov?

Tungyshbay Kadyruly Zhamankulov is a celebrated figure in Kazakh theater and cinema. Born in 1948, he has portrayed a wide array of characters on stage and screen. A student of People's Artist of the USSR, Khadisha Bukeyeva, Zhamankulov performed numerous significant roles at the M. Auezov Theater and also worked as a director. He received the State Prize of Kazakhstan for his role as Khairkhan in the film "The Fall of Otrar." His contributions to acting have been recognized with the titles of Honored Artist and People's Artist of Kazakhstan.

This story was reported by Infohub.kz.