The process of memorialization of heroes in the East Kazakhstan region: cultural anthropological analysis
Authors:   L. N. Gumilev Eurasian National University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, Yermagambetova K.S. , Orazbayeva D.E. ,   L. N. Gumilev Eurasian National University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, the interest in the study of the memorialization process, the implementation of commemoration practices among anthropologists and culturologists is annually growing. In all regions of Kazakhstan, the process of activation of local heritage issues, the creation a local personality cult, social and cultural space of the region, and the formation of a national identity is dynamically developing. This tendency, on the one hand, activated under the influence of state programs; on the other hand – carried at the discretion of specific actors. “Memory Studies”, which has been developed over the past ten years, has made it possible to scientifically comprehend and interpret the cultural, historical and collective memories of humanity. The task of the society is to keep the image of great personalities, including heroes, who occupy a significant place in the national history and culture of the Kazakhs, and to pass it on to future generations. Nevertheless, the transformation of a historical event into a memorial, the transmission of history through a monument to generations is one of the directions of the state memorial policy. According to the researcher of Central Asian countries Cristopher Reese, “the experience of perpetuation traumatic events in the history of Kazakh people development through monuments, memorials, memorable places is associated with a rethinking of history, that is, nation-building” (Rees K. M, 2020: 446). The monument is not put up for decoration, it glorifies our history. As M. Halvaks said, the collective memory is undergoing continuous “revision” to match today’s reality (M. Halvaks, 2007: 146). Therefore, each memorable place is of great importance for the collective. The article discusses the experience of commemoration in the East Kazakhstan region. The East Kazakhstan region is known for its natural, historical, cultural and symbolic heritage and the cultural landscape. At the same time, in the region, along with the implementation of state ideological programs, the practice of memorials establishments and monuments, the realization of systemic procedures and various commemorations in order to consolidate the collective identity. In the article, we consider the process of great personality’s memorialization of the region, in particular local heroes. Hero is a multilateral concept. In our research direction, we focused on the heroes who became famous for their heroism during the period of the Dzungarian invasion and during the formation of the Kazakh Khanate. The research was carried out on the monuments of Kabanbay, Shynkozhy, Tauke, Er Daulet, Kokzhal and other batyrs. These heroes are considered very important figures for the locals. These heroes are considered as emotional personalities who create the local cultural identity and national patriotism. Photos and information in the article were got as the result of field research in the East Kazakhstan region.