Kazakhstan Celebrates the 179th Anniversary of Renowned Poet Abai
Astana, The Gulf Observer: Kazakhstan observed the 179th anniversary of the great Kazakh poet and thinker Abai Kunanbayuly on August 10, a day that has been officially recognized as a national holiday since 2020. Abai, a prominent poet, composer, thinker, and public figure, is celebrated as the founder of Kazakh written literature.
This year’s celebrations commenced with flower-laying ceremonies in regional centers, followed by a series of readings and literary evenings across the country. The Abai State Historical-Cultural and Literary-Memorial Museum Reserve Zhidebai-Borili is hosting a variety of events, including a poetic contest in honor of the great poet. Additionally, the “Abai Alemi” exhibition is being held at the Turkistan Tarikhy Museum.
The national youth decade has also been marked by Abai readings and challenges, showcasing the enduring influence of Abai’s work on younger generations.
On August 9, a special ceremony was held in Almaty, where flowers were laid at the monument of Abai to honor his 179th anniversary. The event was attended by Deputy Mayor of Almaty Azamat Kaldybekov, Deputy Chairman of the Writers’ Union of Kazakhstan Kassymkhan Begmanov, Majilis deputies, General Consul of China in Almaty Jiang Wei, as well as writers, scientists, public figures, and students. In her remarks, Jiang Wei noted that Abai’s legacy is recognized not only in Kazakhstan but also worldwide, highlighting the unveiling of a monument dedicated to Abai in Beijing.
Over 20 events are scheduled to take place in Almaty alone to commemorate Abai Day, reflecting the profound significance of this day for the entire country.
In addition to the events in Kazakhstan, the poet’s legacy was celebrated internationally. In Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, a new Scientific and Educational Center for Kazakh Language and Culture named after Abai was inaugurated at the Kazan Federal University’s Institute of Philology and Intercultural Communication. The center aims to promote the Kazakh language, strengthen cultural ties, and introduce the rich culture and history of Kazakhstan to a broader audience.
Earlier this year, on April 22, “The Book of Words,” a seminal work by Abai, was presented at the National Library of Pakistan. The book, consisting of 45 philosophical treatises and parables, has been translated into four official languages of Pakistan—Pashto, Punjabi, Sindhi, and Balochi—underscoring Abai’s global influence.
During a welcoming speech at the event, Ambassador Yerzhan Kistafin emphasized the importance of Abai’s contributions to literature and philosophy, particularly highlighting the role of “The Book of Words” in shaping Kazakh thought and cultural identity.
In anticipation of the state visit of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Kazakhstan, an international roundtable discussion titled “Two Stars of the East: Abai and Navoi” was held on August 5 at Karaganda State University. The discussion focused on the lives and works of the two legendary poets and their significance in fostering international cultural ties.
As Kazakhstan celebrates Abai Day, the nation reflects on the poet’s enduring legacy, which continues to inspire and unite people both within and beyond its borders.
