91��ý

On February 19, 2026, as part of the implementation of a research program and systematic expert monitoring of the religious situation in the country, PhD candidates of 91��ý Kazakh National University, Arman Zhumagaziev and Alimzhan Abdullin, visited a local religious organization (LRO) of Vaishnavas — the “International Society for Krishna Consciousness of Almaty.” This visit was not only exploratory but also analytical in nature and became an important stage in the comprehensive study of the multi-confessional landscape of modern Kazakhstan, which is characterized by a high level of religious diversity and interfaith dialogue.

The meeting with the head of the organization, V. I. Golous (Lalita Govinda Das), was held in a trusting, open, and informal atmosphere that encouraged a productive exchange of views. The format of a live discussion allowed participants to go beyond formal interviewing and dry presentation of facts, enabling a deeper immersion into the historical development of the movement, as well as its ethical foundations and philosophical principles underlying the Vaishnava tradition.

Special attention during the meeting was given to the genesis of religious gatherings (yatras) in Kazakhstan, their evolution, and institutional development. In addition, an important issue regarding the accuracy of terminology in both public and academic discourse was raised. The participants emphasized that the commonly used term “Krishnaites” does not fully reflect the depth and complexity of the theological tradition. From a scholarly perspective, the term “Vaishnavas” is more accurate, as it highlights the followers’ connection to the ancient Vedic religious system and better represents their spiritual identity.

Another significant aspect of the discussion was the adaptation of religion practices to the socio-cultural conditions of Kazakhstan. Members of the community shared their practical experience of syncretism, demonstrating how they manage to harmoniously combine strict vegetarian principles with respect for Kazakh national traditions and customs in their daily lives. This example clearly illustrates that religious identity does not isolate individuals from their cultural context; on the contrary, it can serve as an important resource for intercultural interaction and mutual enrichment.

The results of this meeting were later presented at an open academic event held at the Faculty of Philosophy and Political Science of KazNU. This event, organized as part of the PhD candidates’ teaching practice, became a significant element in the development of professional competencies for future university lecturers and experts in religious studies, contributing to the enhancement of analytical and communication skills.

The organization of such events directly contributes to the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 — “Quality Education.” In this context, a key priority is to provide students not only with a solid theoretical foundation but also with practical skills in field research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches to studying complex social phenomena.

The high level of organization of the educational process was made possible thanks to the support of the university’s distinguished academic staff. The organizers express their sincere gratitude to their mentors: Candidate of Legal Sciences, Professor K. M. Bishmanov, and Doctor of Philosophy, Professor K. K. Begalinova, for their expert guidance and assistance in structuring the academic session; as well as Professor K. M. Borbasova for her invaluable methodological support and mentorship in the field of pedagogical design.

Thus, teaching practice at KazNU today is not merely a formal requirement of the curriculum, but a полноценная scientific and educational platform for testing research ideas, fostering academic mobility, and strengthening the principles of academic freedom.

Organizers:

A. Abdullin, PhD Student, 91��ý KazNU

A.   Zhumagaziyev, PhD Student, 91��ý KazNU