GAUKHAR ANA – A HOLY MOTHER AND A HEALING SOURCE OF FAITH

In southern Kazakhstan, not far from Turkestan, lies the mausoleum of Gaukhar Ana –the daughter of the great Sufi master Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Gifted with healing abilities, she helped the sick and the needy, and for this, people lovingly called her “Auliye Ana” – the Holy Mother,

Before her death, Gaukhar Ana made a final request: “Bury me where the blood of my younger brother, Sheikh Ibrahim, was shed”.

He had been unjustly killed simply for drawing water from a well that had been dug for the whole community.Since then, this place has become a sacred site, where women come with hope – seeking healing and the blessing of children. It is said that the water from this well possesses special healing power – it dries instantly on the skin, leaving a sense of lightness and grace.

Visiting such places is more than just a journey – it is a dialogue with Eternity, an opportunity to feel close to the Creator, and to return to one’s true self. Gaukhar Ana, the daughter of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, possessed the gift of healing and cured many people. Yet the Almighty did not grant her children. Once, she came to her father to express her sorrow. “All the people you have healed – they are your children!” replied Khoja Ahmed. Next to her whitewashed clay sarcophagus, a small prayer house was built on the side, allowing visitors to offer their prayers .