The mystery of Sarmazar: Historians doubt Alimbek Datka's grave in Osh

A historical debate is unfolding in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, concerning the true resting place of Alimbek Datka, a prominent figure in the region's history.

The Sarmazar ancient cemetery in Osh is home to a mausoleum that attracts thousands of visitors annually. The facade of the current structure, which was renovated in 2014, displays the names of both Alimbek Datka and his wife, Kurmanjan Datka. This was after Kurmanjan Datka's remains were moved and a new memorial complex was erected.

However, Taalaibek Zharkynbaev, a candidate of historical sciences at Osh State University, asserts that Alimbek Datka's remains are not interred at this site. He bases his conclusion on archival data, contemporary accounts, and scholarly research, suggesting the mausoleum might be more of a political-ideological project rather than an accurate historical burial site.

Zharkynbaev points to the writings of Ivan Yuvachev, a Russian writer and traveler who visited Osh in 1907. Yuvachev documented his conversations with Alimbek Datka's son, Mamytbek, who provided detailed information about his father's life, rise to power in the Kokand Khanate, and death. Yuvachev's account of Kurmanjan Datka's funeral, as relayed by Mamytbek, is considered a key piece of evidence in questioning the current mausoleum's authenticity as Alimbek Datka's final resting place.