Keeping hearts warm: Nauriznama at CHPP-2 after A.Zhakutov
The atmosphere of unity and celebration prevailed at Almaty CHPP-2 named after A.Zhakutov during the decade of Nauryznama holiday. The station employees not only experienced the centuries-old traditions of the Kazakh people, but also became the creators of an unforgettable event. The centre of the festivities was a luxurious yurta, the interior decoration of which was amazingly warm and beautiful: patterned textiles, bright cushions and authentic decorations created the sense of authentic home.
Preparations for the holiday have united the team members. Employees were personally involved in organizing the catering: they bought meat and cooked it themselves, prepared fragrant pilaf, sweets and national cuisine. “This process has really united us. Everyone put a part of their soul to make the holiday truly warm”, said Saule Azimbekova, a maintenance technician. Nauryznama at Zhakutov CHPP-2 was not just for fun, but rather a profound educational moment. Each of the ten days was dedicated to values reflecting the richness of Kazakhstani culture. The culmination was a wedding ritual – a bride’s send-off. “When I saw our staff leading the bride under the arm, my heart beat faster. It was so touching!” – Saule Medenova, an apparatus worker at the chemical treatment plant, admitted.
A particularly emotional moment was when the bride was dressed in a saukele, a traditional headwear. “When she walked down the white carpet, it made everyone in the hall’s heart ache a little bit”, recalled Asel Umiraliyeva, a laboratory technician at the Central Scientific and Production Department. The role of the bride’s father was played by DyusengaliSoltanbayev, the head of the Central Scientific and Production Research Centre: “I felt the responsibility of the role. It was as if I experienced my children’s wedding all over again. Such moments remind us how important family values are.
Most people could not hide their tears – the ceremony was so realistic and heartfelt. And afterwards, to the sound of the dombra and folk tunes, the celebration continued with a feast. Guests were treated to baursaks, Nauryzkozhe, pilaf, koumiss and shubat, creating a unique flavor of Nauryz.
“We were stunned at how accurately the spirit of tradition was conveyed. Even those who had not participated in such rituals before were impressed by the respect for our culture”, said Gula Zhakayeva, chairwoman of the station’s trade union. Everyone was in a truly festive mood: laughter, dancing, shared photos against the backdrop of the yurt and conversations about the importance of preserving the heritage of ancestors.
This day at CHPP-2 became not just a part of the decade, but a living lesson of love for the native land, family and traditions. As Raushan Okapova, Head of the Accounting Department said: “Such events educate young people better than any words. They remind us that our strength is in unity and remembrance of our roots”.
The holiday has come to an end, but the warmth of these moments will warm the hearts of employees for a long time to come, giving them pride in common values.