On October 3–4, Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region was the venue of a commemorative event dedicated to the 275th anniversary of the renowned religious figure and Sufi, Beket Myrzagululy.
Beket Myrzagululy (approximately 1750-1813), also known as Beket Ata, was a great figure who paved the way for the spiritual revival of the Kazakh people and the dissemination of knowledge and faith. His underground mosque, Tobykty, and the teachings he inherited from Shopan Ata represent an inexhaustible spiritual legacy for modern generations.
Holding the commemorative event at the Tobykty mosque, a revered pilgrimage site in Mangystau, was a symbol of respect for the past and the transmission of spiritual heritage to future generations.
The event gathered over 10,000 people from all regions of Kazakhstan and abroad. The scale of the event was impressive: 100 yurts were installed on the sacred land of Tobykty by each of the country’s regions, businesses, public organizations, and private individuals, welcoming guests according to all the canons of Kazakh tradition. Each yurt was furnished with rich dastarkhans, demonstrating the unique hospitality of the Kazakh people and a manifestation of the unity and cohesion of the nation.
Through prayers and spiritual events, participants were able to gain a deeper understanding of the legacy of Beket Ata and Shopan Ata. Renowned historians, theologians, public figures, poets and writers spoke to the participants and shared their profound reflections.
Distinguished guests and speakers
The event was attended by prominent spiritual and public figures, such as Islam Zhemenei, Torali Kydyr, Maksat Skakov, Shingys Mukan, Anuar Yelzhanov, Kozhakhmet Demeubergen, Baktybay Zhailau, and Rakhat Kosbarmak.
Welcoming speeches were delivered by Nurdaulet Kylybay, Akim (Governor) of the region; Darkhan Kydyrali, a Member of Parliament and Doctor of Historical Sciences; Svetkali Nurzhan, a poet; and Suindik Aldashev, a Member of Parliament.
Among the guests was Marat Akhmedjanov, Founder and Vice-Chairman of the Eurasian Creative Guild and head of the Hertfordshire Press publishing house (London).
Sport competitions
The event was not limited to the spiritual program and also included traditional sporting competitions.
The best wrestlers from various regions participated in traditional Kazakh wrestling competitions for the Shopan Ata and Beket Ata prizes. Winners received cash prizes of up to 2,000,000 tenge. Weightlifting competitions were also held, with the strongest receiving awards of up to 300,000 tenge.
Traditional horse races added a special touch to the celebration. Winners received valuable prizes ranging from 700,000 tenge to cars.
Horsemen from all over the country participated in the races, adding the spirit of the steppe and national pride to the whole event.
Local authorities, public councils, entrepreneurs, and volunteers joined efforts in organizing the commemorative event.
Conclusion
The event at Tobykty was not just a tribute to the memory of the great ancestor, but also an important occasion that strengthened spiritual continuity and national unity in the people’s consciousness.
The President of Kazakhstan and the Chairmen of the Senate and Mazhilis of Parliament sent their congratulatory letters to the organizers and participants of the celebration. These messages emphasized the great spiritual and historical significance of Beket Ata’s legacy, his role in strengthening national values and national unity.
The 275th anniversary of Beket Ata was a significant event not only for Mangystau but for the entire Kazakh people. It is a good example of preserving historical memory, strengthening national unity, and honoring spiritual values.
by Bekmurat Zhusupov, Chairman of the Organizing Committee
