A small cross-section of Ruslan's clan welcomed me with tasty lamb stew Uzbek style: Ruslan, his two kids and one each of wife, aunt, sister, family friend, mother and brother. Behind the camera are two other brothers - I lost count of how many brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles Ruslan has, but certainly I met many and it seemed like most of the village was in some way related. After we'd polished off the food, Ruslan pointed out that it was a bit late for him to drive to my hotel and back to return me, especially since he'd had a few vodkas! So why don't I stay the night? Accepting his kind offer meant there was enough time for us to head out into the village for a few drinks with friends.
Sharing a fabulous traditional Uzbek lamb and rice based meal the next day with Ruslan and some of his closest friends (L to R): Aman a Turkmen walnut trader; Muhammed a champion billiards player, owner of champion fighting dog and general wheeler dealer; and Uzbekistan's champion kickboxer whose name I forget but I won't forget that his hands seemed to be developing into permanent fists!
No comments:
Post a Comment