Kazakhstan's Hero of Labor, prominent poet, public figure Mukhtar Shakhanov was seen off on his final journey; citizens gathered for the mourning ceremony, reports Todayinfo.kz news agency.
In connection with the poet's death, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev sent a telegram of condolences to the family and relatives. Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev read out the President's telegram to the public.
"I share your heavy grief over the passing of the son of the nation, an outstanding poet, a well-known public figure, Hero of Labor of Kazakhstan Mukhtar Shakhanov. Mukhtar Shakhanov devoted all his instructive life to Kazakh art, raised our poetry to a new level. He made a great contribution to expanding the horizons of our native literature and culture.
He was always at the forefront of important matters as a champion of the language. His works have been translated into many foreign languages and have won the favor of a wide readership. The bright image of the poet, who lived a worthy life and left a rich literary legacy, will forever remain in the people's memory. May his soul be at peace, may he be in paradise," the telegram reads.
Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev also said he received this sad news with deep distress. According to him, on the instructions of the President, a special delegation arrived from Astana and took part in the farewell ceremony.
"This is a heavy grief that has broken all of us. When you say Mukhtar Shakhanov, first of all the high spirit and unbending character of a Kazakh come to mind. He was a unique personality who defended national honor both in word and deed.
The poet found his way to the people's hearts through poetry, brought fresh impetus to Kazakh poetry. His works are a spiritual mirror of an entire era. His poems clearly reflect civic stance, conscience, love and national spirit," he said.
The mourning ceremony was conducted by the chairman of the Writers' Union of Kazakhstan Mereke Kulkenov. The event was attended by state and public figures, members of Parliament, as well as Aida Balayeva, Darkhan Satybaldy and other personalities who shared their memories.
Mukhtar Shakhanov is known not only as a poet but also for his activity in socio-political life. His work and civic stance occupy a special place in Kazakh society.
The city of Almaty is particularly noted as an environment that greatly influenced the poet's spiritual formation and allowed his creative path to become widely known.
