First Feature Film on Ancient Botai Culture Begins Production in Kazakhstan

A new film about the ancient Botai culture has started production in Petropavl. The project, titled Botai: The Lost World, marks the first full-length feature film dedicated to this groundbreaking civilisation. It is already being called one of the region’s most important cultural events in years. The Botai culture thrived over 5,000 years ago in what is now Kazakhstan. Archaeologists first uncovered evidence of it in 1980 in the Aiyrtau District, thanks to the work of Viktor Zaibert. This society holds a unique place in history as one of the earliest to domesticate horses, a development that transformed travel, farming, and societies across Eurasia.

Now, filmmakers are bringing this ancient world to life. Their goal is to share the story of the Botai with a wide audience, highlighting its importance as one of Kazakhstan’s most remarkable archaeological finds. Production for Botai: The Lost World is underway in Petropavl. The film seeks to raise awareness of a culture that shaped early human progress. Its release will likely draw attention to Kazakhstan’s rich historical heritage.