Hazret Doszhan Kashakuly – Ascetic Path

Abstract

The article is devoted to the religious and educational activities of Hazret Doszhan (Dosmukhamed)
Kashakuly (1815-1890), known in Western Kazakhstan and neighboring territories of Uzbekistan, Karakalpakstan
and Turkmenistan. Based on the analysis of special literature and field ethnographic materials,
the initial path of the future preacher in his native village, in the madrasah of the Orenburg province
and beyond is considered. The same applies to the opening of mosques and madrasas with them, in
which more than two thousand students were educated, including the destitute and orphans.
He is known to the public not only as one of the first Kazakhs who made a hajj to Mecca and organized
a pilgrimage there, but also built together with Kunanbai – Abai’s father there the first guest house
(takiya) for compatriots. It is shown that he owns the initiative to open an independent muftiate, which
was blocked by the royal satraps. The publication also addresses the issues of his development in his native
land of the beginnings of integrated agriculture with the cultivation of field farming, horticulture and
gardening. The ascetic activity of the Hazret quite fits into the formation of his school with the presence
of later known followers who became eminent in the region and beyond.
The publication also touched upon the tragic fate of his descendants during the years of Stalinist
repression, the preserved heritage and the beginning of the restoration of the religious and cult complex
of Hazret, which was included in the list of sacred objects of Kazakhstan of national importance, etc.
The conclusion summarizes the results of half a century of religious, educational, social and other ascetic
activities of Doszhan Kashakuly for the benefit of his native people.