Abai (Ibrahim) Kunanbaiuly (1845-1904) was a great Kazakh poet, composer, educator, thinker, public figure, founder of Kazakh written literature and its first classic. In his works, Abai raised issues of public life of the Kazakh people and sought to show ways to solve them. He is known as a cultural reformer in the spirit of rapprochement with European culture based on enlightened Islam. Abai’s poems and prose have become the spiritual wealth of the Kazakh people, and his legacy continues from generation to generation.
The monument to Abai was created by the famous capital sculptor Askar Nartov. The height of the monument is 11 meters; it grandly depicts the image of the great poet, demonstrating his wisdom and insight. This monument was erected in honor of the 175th anniversary of Abai Kunanbaiuly. The opening of the monument is a clear manifestation of respect for the legacy of the great poet.
The solemn opening ceremony of the monument was attended by public figures, government employees, veterans, and youth. The audience was congratulated by the region’s akim Makhambet Dosmukhambetov, who noted Abai’s great contribution to the development of Kazakh culture and literature.
