The history of the origin and popularization of the song “Balkadisha”: An ethnoarchaeological study

Abstract

This article presents an ethnoarchaeological study of the origin and popularization of the song “Balkadisha” by renowned composer Akan Seri Koramsauly (1843–1913). Despite the song’s widespread popularity, only journalists and composers have previously written about its origins, and no comprehensive academic research has been conducted on the subject. The article first establishes the relevance of the topic and reviews the extent of prior research. A textual analysis of song collections published  since the early 20th century identifies changes in the lyrics over time. The impact of Soviet ideology, particularly its emphasis on class struggle, on interpretations of Akan Seri’s work is examined. Special attention is given to the inaccurate claim that Balkadisha Ybyraykyzy was married to an eighty-five-year-old man, which was unjustifiably  inserted into later versions of the lyrics. The study introduces previously unknown historical facts about Balkadisha Ybyraykyzy, using archival materials from the State Archive  of the Zerendi district in the Akmola region. These documents confirm her birth year and offer new insights into her family background.  Archival records also establish the birth year of Baimyrza Musayev, whose meeting with Balkadisha led to the creation of the song, thus  allowing for a more precise dating of its composition. Field expeditions were conducted in the Akmola region, including interviews with people who had known Balkadisha Ybyraykyzy and her descendants. These interviews enriched the history of the song’s origin and dissemination.  A photograph of Balkadisha preserved in the family archive of her granddaughter Aymkoz  Talasova is also included. During the ethnoarchaeological study, the burial place of Balkadisha Ybyraykyzy was identified in the village of Kenotkel in the Zerendi district, and an archaeological analysis was conducted. Scientific findings confirmed that this area has been continuously inhabited since the Stone Age, with evidence of established settlements still present during the lifetime  of Balkadisha Ybyraykyzy. A regional map was developed to show the locations associated with Akan Seri and Balkadisha, including GPS coordinates. The article concludes with recommendations to include these culturally significant sites in the Akmola Region’s tourist routes.