Multitudes of Almaty residents at the "Enhancement of Baatir" rally - exclusive photo impression
So, on May 9, 2025, Maxim Zolotukhin took a spectacular panoramic shot in Almaty's 28 Panfilov Heroes Park, showing thousands of locals participating in the heartfelt event "Batyrlarğa Tağzym". This occasion, which translates to "Let's Bow to the Heroes" in Kazakh, is a uniquely Kazakh tribute honoring the country's military heroes who fought valiantly in World War II.
The event was more than just a casual get-together. It was a powerful statement of Kazakhstani pride, distancing itself from the sentimental reminiscences of the Soviet era and Russian state narratives. This shift was a result of efforts by local veteran groups and the changing regional and geopolitical climate, marked by historical memories of colonialism and recent geopolitical tensions, such as the invasion of Ukraine.
To avoid the ubiquitous Russian-style celebrations, many regional authorities in Kazakhstan even prohibited Immortal Regiment processions. In response, the Batyrlarğa Tağzym event emerged as a homegrown, independent remembrance, characterized by marches, music, and community gatherings. This event is part of a broader mission by Kazakhstan to honor World War II veterans, as seen in the naming of streets after them and financial support for surviving veterans, aiming to craft a nationally rooted memory of the war that emphasizes Kazakhstani heroism and sacrifice.
The city's mayor, Erbolat Dosayev, was also present at the event, taking part in the ceremony of paying respects at the Eternal Flame. The scene captured in Zolotukhin's photo was undeniably a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Kazakhstani people, their pride in their veterans, and their quest for a distinct national identity in the face of the ever-changing geopolitical landscape.
- The stunning panoramic shot taken by Maxim Zolotukhin on May 9, 2025, in Almaty's 28 Panfilov Heroes Park, captured the patriotic spirit of Kazakhstan during the Batyrlarğa Tağzym event, a homegrown remembrance of the country's military heroes from World War II.
- The Batyrlarğa Tağzym event, with its marches, music, and community gatherings, is part of a broader mission by Kazakhstan to honor World War II veterans and to establish a nationally rooted memory of the war that emphasizes Kazakhstani heroism and sacrifice.
- The television footage of the Batyrlarğa Tağzym event in 2025 would undoubtedly showcase a panoramic view of the city of Almaty, highlighting the resilience and pride of the Kazakhstani people, striving for a distinct national identity amidst the ever-changing geopolitical landscape.
