Kazakhstan commemorates centenary of celebrated writer Nurpeisov
Kazakhstan Celebrates the 100th Anniversary of Prominent Writer Abdizhamil Nurpeisov
Kazakhstan is commemorating the 100th anniversary of Abdizhamil Nurpeisov, a distinguished Kazakh writer, translator, and public figure, on Oct. 22. Nurpeisov, born in 1924 in a small village north of the Aral Sea, was deeply influenced by his early years spent among the fishermen of the region.
After serving as a lieutenant in the Soviet Army during World War II, Nurpeisov dedicated himself to writing. His first novel, “Kurland,” published in 1950, received acclaim for its depiction of his war experiences and earned him the prestigious Zhamby State Prize of the Kazakh SSR.
Nurpeisov’s most significant work is “The Blood and Sweat” trilogy, which covers the period from the First World War to the aftermath of the Civil War in the former Russian Empire, focusing on the lives of Kazakh fishermen on the shores of the Aral Sea. The trilogy, translated into 30 languages and adapted for film and theater, brought international recognition to Nurpeisov, culminating in the Soviet State Prize for literature in 1974.
In addition to his literary accomplishments, Nurpeisov made significant contributions to translation, bringing works by Spanish playwright Alejandro Casona and Russian literary giants like Anton Chekhov and Maxim Gorky into Kazakh. He also served as the first president of the International Kazakh PEN Club and led the editorial board of the literary magazine “Zhuldyz.”
Nurpeisov’s vision for the city of Almaty, where he developed a deep affection despite his roots in a rural village, emphasized the importance of balancing urban development with respect for nature and cultural traditions. His legacy of literary and cultural contributions continues to inspire generations, even after his passing on Feb. 5 in Almaty at the age of 97.
