In Semey, a monument dedicated to the philosopher, poet, translator, and composer Shakarim Kudaiberdyuly was unveiled. The event was attended by the governor of the region, Nurlan Urankhaev, chairman of the regional council Shalkar Baibekov, deputies, scholars, Abai researchers, public figures, and local residents.
The monument to Shakarim Kudaiberdyuly, including its pedestal, stands at 7.7 meters tall. The sculptural composition, titled Shakarim Kudaiberdyuly, is made of bronze, while the pedestal is crafted from solid granite. Through this composition, the sculptor portrayed the sage image of Shakarim holding a book in his right hand and prayer beads in his left. The monument was created by Nurbol Kaliyev and installed at the intersection of Shakarim Avenue and Kabanbai Batyr Street.
To mark the occasion, the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, sent a congratulatory letter, which was read aloud during the ceremony by regional governor Nurlan Urankhaev.
Shakarim Kudaiberdyuly’s literary heritage is remarkably rich. He worked in the fields of poetry, prose, translation, and history, adhering to Abai’s tradition of democratic, humanistic ideals. His work continued the realist tradition in Kazakh literature established by Abai, playing a significant role not only for Kazakh culture but also for the broader Turkic and Eastern cultural heritage.
The unveiling of the monument on the eve of Independence Day carries symbolic significance, as Shakarim’s spiritual legacy resonates deeply with the themes of freedom and independence.
