A Republican Conference “Zhumeken’s Poetry – The Voice of the Century” Held at Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University

At Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, a Republican Conference titled “Zhumeken’s Poetry – The Voice of the Century” was held, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the birth of Zhumeken Nazhimedenov, the author of the State Anthem of the Republic of Kazakhstan, poet, and laureate of the State Prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The meeting was opened by Daryn Shamuratov, Deputy Akim of the Atyrau Region, who noted:

“The song ‘Menin Qazaqstanym’ (My Kazakhstan) was written by the poet when he was only 21 years old.
Zhumeken is a personality who emerged from the vast Kazakh steppe — a philosopher who deeply comprehended and revealed the mysteries of existence, and a writer whose prose works represent the pinnacle of spiritual maturity.”

As part of the event, which aimed to promote the works and legacy of the outstanding poet, a congratulatory letter from Aida Galimkyzy Balayeva, Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was read out.
In addition, commemorative gifts were presented on behalf of K. M. Tireuov, Rector of S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University.

The Chairman of the Board of the Writers’ Union of Kazakhstan, Mereke Kulkenov, emphasized in his speech:

“Zhumeken was born in the Ashak area (the Koshalak sands of the Kurmangazy district), among the rolling dunes where his childhood passed amidst the wind and the whisper of the sands — that is why his poems sound soft and heartfelt.”

He elaborated on the poet’s works, mentioning poems such as “Töbemde bulttar zharysty” (Clouds Raced Above Me), “Qyran-qiia” (The Falcon’s Height), and novels written in Moscow — “Aq Shaghyl” (White Dune), “Kishkentai” (The Little One), and “Dańq pen daqpyrt” (Glory and Noise).

Kulkenov noted that along with Zhumeken, other prominent poets of that era — Qadyr Myrza Ali and Tumanbai Moldagaliev — also rose to literary prominence, bringing a fresh and distinctive spirit to Kazakh poetry. He added that a major evening event dedicated to these three poets is planned in Almaty, where their early works will be published as a special anthology.

Sarsenbai Ensegenov, statesman, public figure, and Honorary Citizen of Atyrau Region, recalled individuals who played a key role in shaping Zhumeken as a poet — including Abuu Sarsenbaev, who supported him at the beginning of his career. He highlighted Zhumeken’s firm and principled character, sharing that naming his son Magzhan during the Soviet period and personally taking the child to meet Magzhan Zhumabaev’s widow was an act of true civic courage.

During the event, there was also a presentation of the book “Ult urany zhane Uly aqyn” (The Battle Cry of the Nation and the Great Poet) by poet and researcher Almas Akhmetbekuly, dedicated to Zhumeken Nazhimedenov’s life and creativity.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting was performed by Mereke Abdeshuly Kulkenov and the poet’s daughter Karlygash Nazhimedenova.

The conference featured speeches from:

• Poet and researcher Almas Akhmetbekuly — “Ult urany zhane Uly aqyn” (The Battle Cry of the Nation and the Great Poet);

• Poet and laureate of the Abai State Prize Svetkali Nurzhan — “Zh. Nazhimedenov shygarmashylygy turaly soz” (On the Works of Zh. Nazhimedenov);

• Critic, publicist, and researcher Amangeldi Kenshilikuly — “Zhumeken – Ult aqyny” (Zhumeken – The National Poet);

• Professor of Atyrau University, Doctor of Philology Kadir Zhusip — “Zhumeken – biik tulgaly talant” (Zhumeken – A Highly Spirited Talent).

Participants emphasized the need for further research into Zhumeken Nazhimedenov’s multifaceted legacy and deeper exploration of his creative works.

The poet’s daughter, Karlygash Nazhimedenova, noted that her father wrote with deep affection for his homeland, often reflecting on the theme of the native land, and shared her dream of seeing a film dedicated to his life and art.

At the conclusion of the conference, a resolution was adopted to establish the “Zhumeken Nazhimedenov Center” in Atyrau, to organize annual Republican literary contests and readings “Zhumeken oqulary”, and to promote the poet’s creative works and publications at the international level.