Akhmet Baitursynov: The Hilarious Kazakhstani Writer You Need to Know

Akhmet Baitursynov, born in 1873, was a Kazakhstani writer, poet, and intellectual known for his contributions to Kazakh language and literature. But what most people don’t know is that he was also a hilarious guy who made jokes about everything from politics to social norms.

As a young man, Akhmet was sent to study in a Russian school, where he quickly became renowned for his sharp wit and humorous anecdotes. When he returned to Kazakhstan, he began writing satirical essays, poems, and stories that poked fun at Kazakh society, while also celebrating its unique culture.

One of his most famous works is a satirical poem called “The Tale of Korguz,” which tells the story of a foolish Kazakh man who thinks he’s a genius, but always manages to mess things up. The poem is full of witty wordplay and clever jokes, and has become something of a cultural touchstone in Kazakhstan.

But it wasn’t just poetry and prose where Akhmet’s humor shone through. He was also known for his hilarious speeches, often using self-deprecating humor to make a point. For example, one time he gave a speech where he said, “I am a great thinker. I spend hours on end sitting in my chair, staring at the ceiling, pretending to think. But in reality, I’m just taking a nap.”

Akhmet’s humor was a reflection of his love for his culture and his desire to make his fellow Kazakhs laugh, even in the face of hardship and oppression. Sadly, he passed away in 1937, during Stalin’s purges, but his legacy lives on through his writing and his enduring reputation as a hilarious, sharp-witted wordsmith.

So the next time you find yourself in Kazakhstan, take a moment to raise a glass to Akhmet Baitursynov, the funniest writer you’ve never heard of (until now). Cheers!