ASTANA,Kazakhstan(Bekmurat Zhusupov) – Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region hosted a grand commemorative event on 3–4 October to mark the 275th anniversary of Beket Myrzagululy, a revered Sufi and religious leader known as Beket Ata. Held at the sacred Tobykty underground mosque, a key pilgrimage site, the celebration drew over 10,000 attendees from across Kazakhstan and beyond, honouring the spiritual legacy of Beket Ata (c. 1750–1813) and his mentor, Shopan Ata.
The event showcased Kazakh hospitality and unity, with 100 yurts erected by regions, businesses, and individuals, each offering traditional dastarkhans to welcome guests. Prayers, spiritual discussions, and talks by prominent historians, theologians, poets, and public figures, including Islam Zhemenei, Torali Kydyr, and Marat Akhmedjanov of the Eurasian Creative Guild, enriched attendees’ understanding of Beket Ata’s teachings.
The programme also featured traditional Kazakh sports, including wrestling and weightlifting competitions with prizes up to 2,000,000 tenge (£3,200) and horse races with awards ranging from 700,000 tenge (£1,100) to cars, adding a vibrant cultural dimension. Local authorities, public councils, entrepreneurs, and volunteers collaborated to organise the event.
Congratulatory messages from Kazakhstan’s President and the Chairmen of the Senate and Mazhilis underscored Beket Ata’s enduring role in fostering national values and unity. The Tobykty celebration not only paid tribute to a spiritual icon but also reinforced Kazakhstan’s commitment to preserving its historical and cultural heritage.
