Monument to Yeset Batyr Kokiuly

Historical Background

Yeset Kokiuly (1667-1749) was one of the most distinguished Kazakh batyrs (warrior-heroes), renowned for his role in the Kazakh people's struggle against the Dzungar invasions. He belonged to the Tama clan of the Zhetiru tribal confederation of the Junior Zhuz.

Following the tragic events known as Aktaban Shubyryndy, when the Kazakh people united to resist the Dzungars, Yeset Batyr took part in the Battle of Bulanty, where the Kazakh forces inflicted their first major defeat on the enemy. His contribution to this decisive victory played an important role in restoring the morale of the nation. During the historic Battle of Anyrakai, he served as the standard-bearer of the forces of the Junior Zhuz.

When Ablai? Actually Russian says Abulkhair Khan. Let's correct: When Abulkhair Khan initiated the process of accepting the protection of the Russian Empire, Yeset stood alongside him and actively participated in the incorporation of the Junior and Middle Zhuzes into the Russian Empire. He was also the son-in-law of the renowned Junior Zhuz batyr Bokenbai, who played a significant role in these events. Yeset's father, Koki Bazarkululy, was likewise a celebrated batyr of his time.

On 3 July 1743, by decree of the Russian Imperial Government, Yeset Kokiuly was granted the title of Tarkhan, an honorary rank bestowed in recognition of distinguished military and public service.

Yeset Kokiuly was not only a gifted military commander but also a farsighted politician, statesman, and patriot who devoted his life to defending the freedom of his homeland. He died in 1749 at the age of 82. His mausoleum, designed in the form of a traditional Kazakh yurt, stands atop a prominent hill 3 kilometres east of Bestamaq village in the Alga District. The site is regarded by the local population as a sacred place and continues to attract pilgrims who come to pay their respects to the legendary batyr.

Description of the Monument

The monument consists of a bronze equestrian statue of Yeset Kokiuly. The pedestal is 6.5 metres high, while the statue itself measures 6.3 metres in height. The monument was designed by Zheñis Zhubanqosov, a sculptor from Aqtobe. The bronze casting was produced at the Ivan Dubrovin Foundry Workshop in Yekaterinburg.

The monument was erected through charitable donations and the direct support of numerous benefactors. To oversee the project, a public foundation named "The Yeset Batyr Monument" was established to coordinate the fundraising and construction of the memorial.