Qonaevstalgia: various images of Dinmukhammed Qonaev in post-Nazarbayev Kazakhstan

This article explores perceptions of the former Soviet-era leader of Kazakhstan, Dinmukhamed Qonaev, in contemporary Kazakhstan, including media discourse, music scene, and arts. This article argues that after the turbulent political changes of Kazakhstan in 2022, the image of Qonaev is being reflected upon and reimagined after a long period of oblivion. Usage of various venues, including the music scene, literature and media will permit trace changes and dynamics in the perception of Qonaev in Kazakhstan.