The Anthem is one of the main symbols of the state. The Russian term “gimn” for Anthem comes from the Greek word “Gimneo” and means solemn, ceremonial song. The Anthem serves as an important sound symbol with a key value for the effective socio-political consolidation and ethnocultural identification of citizens of the country.
In the history of sovereign Kazakhstan the national anthem was adopted two times: in 1992 and 2006.
After gaining independence in 1992, a competition was announced to writing of music and lyrics of the national Anthem. Following the results of the competition, it was decided to retain the melody of the previous anthem, the anthem of the Kazakh SSR. Therefore, Mukan Tulebayev, Yevgeny Brusilovsky and Latif Khamidi have become the authors of the first anthem. The creative team presented by Kazakhstan’s famous poets Muzaphar Alimbayev, Kadyr Myrzaliyev, Tumanbai Moldagaliyev and a young poetess Zhadyra Daribayeva won the poetic contest.
The new State Anthem was adopted in 2006 in order to promote the country’s sound symbolism. It is based on the patriotic song “Menyn Kazakhstanym” (My Kazakhstan) which is popular among the people and written in 1956, with music by Shamshi Kaldayakov and lyrics by Zhumeken Nazhimedenov.
President Nursultan Nazarbayev modified the original lyrics of the song. The corresponding amendments have been introduced to the Decree “On State Symbols” at the joint session of the Houses of Parliament on January 6, 2006 and the Parliament approved it as a new State Anthem of Kazakhstan.
Music by Shamshi Kaldayakov
Lyrics by Zhumeken Nazhimedenov and Nursultan Nazarbayev
Sky of golden sun,
Steppe of golden seed,
Legend of courage –
Take a look at my country!
From the antiquity
Our heroic glory emerged,
They did not give up their pride
My Kazakh people are strong!
Chorus:
My country, my country,
As your flower I will be planted,
As your song I will stream, my country!
My native land – My Kazakhstan!
The way was opened to the posterity
I have a vast land.
Its unity is proper,
I have an independent country.
It welcomed the time
Like an eternal friend,
Our country is happy,
Such is our country.
Chorus (twice)