Kyrgyzstan Auditions New National Anthem, Aiming for Inspiration Over Soviet Echoes

Kyrgyzstan is seeking to replace its Soviet-era national anthem through a public contest aimed at promoting national identity. This unique initiative reflects the country’s ambition to convey a modern and inspiring ethos that resonates with the contemporary Kyrgyz people. Challenges have emerged regarding the timeline for selecting a winner, as the contest rules have recently changed. Both government officials and aspiring composers express strong feelings about what the new anthem should represent.

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – In a bold move to redefine national identity, Kyrgyzstan is in search of a new national anthem, moving away from its Soviet roots. This public contest, seemingly a first for this Central Asian nation, seeks to replace the current anthem, which has been criticized for its lack of representation for the modern Kyrgyz people. Introduced in 1992 after gaining independence from the Soviet Union, the anthem largely mirrors its Soviet predecessor.

Government officials argue that the existing anthem does not reflect the rich nomadic heritage of the Kyrgyz people. Historically, they were integrated into the Russian Empire and later, the Soviet Union—a legacy that still influences the country today. Balasaguyn Musayev, a 36-year-old composer among many participants, emphasized the significance of the competition. “Winning this competition would be a huge success,” he stated, sharing that it took him a month to find inspiration and only two days to write the music. His poet friend assisted with the lyrics.

Musayev further reflected on the need for an anthem that exceeds the previous one. Otherwise, he worries people will question the rationale for change. Though the contest was originally expected to yield a winner by April, recent adjustments to the rules have muddied the timeline for when the announcement might take place.

This public solicitation for ideas is somewhat of an anomaly in Central Asia, where most countries maintain more authoritarian regimes. Kyrgyzstan stands apart, featuring a political system that allows for greater competition than its neighbors. For instance, globally, it is uncommon for a nation to entirely overhaul its anthem without also undergoing significant political changes. Other countries, like Australia and Canada, have merely altered lyrics for inclusivity.

The quest for a new anthem is part of broader state symbol reforms initiated by President Sadyr Japarov, who has held power since 2021 after notable constitutional reforms. Recently, he updated the Kyrgyz flag, transforming its sun emblem to more strongly assert national sovereignty. His administration boasts successes in economic growth and anti-corruption efforts, though concerns persist regarding pressures on civil liberties.

On the subject of the new anthem, Japarov expressed dissatisfaction with the current lyrics, which suggest a nation still on the path to freedom. “Are we going to sing for another hundred years that we have just become independent?” he asked rhetorically, asserting the need for an anthem that would invigorate young people and future generations.

Parliament speaker Nurlanbek Shakiyev also criticized the existing anthem, jokingly claiming it was so bad that “birds fly away” from it. He believes that the next anthem should be simple to sing and drive the nation toward development. In contrast, composer and vocalist Nurzhyguit Moldoyar, only 25, argued strongly for the beauty of the current anthem, labeling it a masterpiece. He envisages the winning piece being judged based on emotions it evokes, musical innovation, and genuine expression.

Kyrgyzstan’s search for a fitting anthem encapsulates a nation at a crossroads, keen to embrace its young identity while reflecting on its storied past.

In conclusion, Kyrgyzstan’s initiative to adopt a new national anthem represents a significant cultural shift. As the country seeks to assert its identity apart from the Soviet past and inspire future generations, public participation in this effort is indeed notable. Yet, the anticipation surrounding the contest’s outcome also speaks volumes about the country’s evolving national narrative. Clearly, this quest for a new anthem is more than just a song; it is about forming a cohesive national identity.

Original Source: www.france24.com