Mukagali – Eternal Poetry!

Recently, the creative club “Közqaras,” led by Associate Professor Gulzhaukhar Zhambylkyzy Bolatova, held a literary and musical evening titled “Aitаtyn sağan syrym bul…” at the Higher School of Journalism and Social Sciences of L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. The event was dedicated to the 95th anniversary of the outstanding representative of Kazakh poetry, Mukagali Makatayev. Among the distinguished guests were Nurzhan Kuantaiuly Kuantayev, Director of the Higher School of Journalism and Social Sciences; Myrzabek Amangeldi Kenshilikuly, laureate of the International “Alash” Literary Prize; poet Dauren Berikkazhy; Gabiden Kuanyshbayuly, winner of international and national poetry competitions; as well as Amangeldi Meiramuly Shurentayev, Head of the Department of Press and Publishing, and professor Rakhima Sharipkyzy. Students from the brotherly Kyrgyz Republic: Almazbek kyzy Aziza and Keneshbek uulu Bektemir who are studying at L.N. Gumilyov ENU under the academic mobility program, also specially attended the event. They delivered speeches highlighting the continuity of lyrical poetry between the two nations and contributed to the evening’s program.

At the opening of the event, Makan Sagi recited Mukagali’s poem “Today Is My Birthday,” commemorating the poet’s birthday. During the evening, the audience watched a video presentation about the life and creative path of Mukagali Makatayev. Members of the “Közqaras” club Akniet Alizakh, Zhanyl Onalbek, Altynai Seidakhimetova, Yerkzhan Sansyzbai, Fariza Otesbai, and Gauhar Barat read the poet’s heartfelt verses. Aiken Sarsenbayeva expressively recited by heart “Mukagali’s Monologue,” written by the well-known writer, poet, and scholar Nurzhan Kuantaiuly. Makan Sagi and Anel Zhambyl presented their original poetic dedications to Mukagali, leaving a strong impression on the audience.

It is widely known that many songs have been composed based on Mukagali’s poems. During the creative evening, Indira Sultanova performed the song “Nesine Asygady,” while Gulzhanat Uatkhan sang “Esine Meni Algaysyn” live. In addition, at the initiative of active club member Bek Markash, the talented students of the university members of the “Dala Sazy” orchestra performed beautiful traditional instrumental compositions (kui), deeply touching the hearts of the audience. Poets also took part in the evening. Young poets and writers, continuing the path of the great master, presented their own works to poetry lovers, once again demonstrating their creative talent.

The author of “Mukagali’s Monologue” and Director of the Higher School of Journalism and Social Sciences, Nurzhan Kuantaiuly, shared his memories:

“Several years ago, during a business trip, I visited Mukagali’s birthplace the sacred Karasaz. Both the nature and the people there are special. From elderly elders to small children, everyone is familiar with the творчество of the great poet and holds deep respect for him. As we were leaving Karasaz, our bus was stopped. When we got out, we saw teachers lining up their students and having them recite Mukagali’s poems one by one. This is the uniqueness of Karasaz there is no resident who does not know his poetry. Such a tradition has been firmly established there.” At the end of the evening, the host emphasized: “Mukagali is eternal life!” highlighting the everlasting and creative power of the poet’s literary heritage. The participants immersed themselves in Mukagali’s lyrical, melodic, and soulful poetry, discovering new dimensions of his life.

At the conclusion of the event, the head of the “Közqaras” club, experienced educator and Associate Professor Gulzhaukhar Zhambylkyzy, expressed sincere gratitude to each guest and presented commemorative gifts with special warmth. The literary and musical evening “Aitаtyn sağan syrym bul…,” organized at the Higher School of Journalism and Social Sciences, became a remarkable example of promoting the values of Kazakh poetry and its poetic traditions among the younger generation in honor of the 95th anniversary of Mukagali Makatayev.

Yerassyl Nurlybekuly

Member of the “Közqaras” Creative Club

Student of the Higher School of Journalism and Social Sciences

L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University