Identity, Memory and Common Culture: Aitmatov's World of Thought Was Discussed at KTMU
Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU) hosted a significant panel discussion to mark the 17th anniversary of the passing of Chyngyz Aitmatov, a renowned author whose legacy holds a unique place in the collective memory of the Turkic World. The event titled “Identity, Memory, and Common Culture in Chyngyz Aitmatov’s Works,” took place on June 11, 2025, at the KTMU Rectorate Conference Hall. It was organized in cooperation with Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, the Chyngyz Aitmatov Institute in Ankara, and TURKSOY, attracting participants from across the Turkic World and a broad audience of guests.
Among the attendees were the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye in Bishkek Mekin Mustafa Kemal Ökem; KTMU Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan; Deputy Rector Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev; Deputy of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye and President of the Chyngyz Aitmatov Institute in Ankara Prof. Dr. İlyas Topsakal; Secretary General of TURKSOY Sultan Raev; Chyngyz Aitmatov’s son Eldar Aitmatov; as well as numerous academics, administrative personnel, and representatives from the cultural and artistic communities. Prior to the panel, an art exhibition featuring paintings inspired by the life and literary works of Chyngyz Aitmatov was opened. The exhibition received widespread interest and appreciation from attendees.
In his opening remarks, President of the Chyngyz Aitmatov Institute in Ankara, Prof. Dr. İlyas Topsakal expressed his gratitude to Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University for hosting the event and extended special thanks to Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan and the university community. He emphasized that Chyngyz Aitmatov is a shared cultural treasure of not only the Kyrgyz people but the entire Turkic World: “Chyngyz Aitmatov holds invaluable significance for all of us. His works are not only rich in literary value but also embody themes of humanity, ethics, and culture. To pass these values on to future generations, Aitmatov’s works should be taught in schools. Young people should grow up with this legacy.”
Deputy Rector of KTMU, Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev highlighted that Chyngyz Aitmatov is not only a national pride for Kyrgyzstan but a literary talent admired worldwide: “Aitmatov is one of the most renowned and respected writers in the world. He is our collective pride. If we begin to speak about his greatness, we could go on endlessly.” He expressed his belief that the panel discussions would illuminate the richness of Aitmatov’s legacy. Noting the profound and universal themes explored in the author's works, Prof. Dr. Ibraev also underscored Aitmatov’s attention to environmental issues: “I firmly believe that the issues Aitmatov brought to light will continue to be re-evaluated and elevated in the future.” At the close of his speech, he thanked all contributors and extended his best wishes to the panelists.
Secretary General of TURKSOY Sultan Raev underlined Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University’s leading role in higher education in Kyrgyzstan and across the Turkic World. He noted that Aitmatov held a deep affection for the university: “Visiting this university and engaging with students always brought great joy to Aitmatov. That is why today’s gathering here holds such profound meaning.”
Following the opening remarks, the panel session chaired by KTMU Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan commenced under the title “Identity, Memory, and Common Culture in Chyngyz Aitmatov’s Works.” The panel drew significant attention from the audience and featured thought-provoking presentations that shed light on Aitmatov’s literary legacy.
The first speaker, Prof. Dr. Laili Ukubaeva delivered a presentation titled “Aitmatov: Known and Unknown Aspects.” She explored the multi-dimensional literary heritage of the renowned author, stressing his universal relevance beyond Kyrgyz literature and into the broader Turkic World. She highlighted how his works deeply examine the human condition, nature, and the concept of time. Prof. Dr. Ukubaeva also emphasized Aitmatov’s strong commitment to the Kyrgyz language and cultural identity.
Prof. Dr. Muhammet Hanifi Macit presented his comparative analysis titled “Mankurtization in Aitmatov’s Works and the Western Interpretation of Memory Loss.” He provided an in-depth examination of the famous “mankurt” metaphor, which Aitmatov used to powerfully illustrate how memory, identity, and cultural roots can be systematically erased.
The final speaker, Assist. Prof. Dr. Mirgul Tekeshova in her presentation “Chyngyz Aitmatov and Common Turkic Literature,” discussed the unifying role of Aitmatov’s works across the Turkic World. She argued that his literary vision transcends individual authorship to reflect a shared historical and cultural consciousness: “Aitmatov is a leading voice in the development of Common Turkic Literature.”
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the speakers, followed by a group photo taken to commemorate the day.
