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Ashalchi OkiUdmurt poetess
Date of Birth: 04.04.1898
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Content:
- A Pioneer of Udmurt Literature
- Early Life and Education
- Literary Debut
- Medical Career and Military Service
- Post-War Contributions
- Legacy
A Pioneer of Udmurt Literature
A pioneer in Udmurt literature, Akilina Grigoryevna Vekshina, known by her literary pseudonym Achalchi Oki, emerged as a poetess and writer in the 1920s. Beyond her literary accomplishments, Vekshina also excelled as an ophthalmologist and a frontline doctor during the Great Patriotic War, earning the distinguished title of Honored Physician of the Udmurt ASSR.
Early Life and Education
Born into a peasant family in the village of Kuzebayevo, Vekshina pursued her education at the Karlyganskaya Votyak Teacher's School (1914), the Kazan Workers' Faculty (1921), and the Medical Faculty of Kazan University (1927). Her journey as an author began with her early poems and stories published in 1918 in the Udmurt newspapers "Vil Sin" and "Gudyri."
Literary Debut
Vekshina's literary debut marked a milestone in Udmurt literature. In 1928, her first poetry collections, "On the Road" and "What a Votyak Woman Sings About," were published, earning her a prominent place in the literary landscape. However, her career was met with adversity when she faced repression in 1933 due to alleged connections with nationalists, leading her to withdraw from writing.
Medical Career and Military Service
Despite the setback, Vekshina found fulfillment in her medical career. From 1928 onward, she worked as an ophthalmologist. When the Great Patriotic War broke out, she joined the Red Army in 1941, serving as a Captain of Medical Service. For over a year, she headed the department of toxic gas and gangrenous infection, later becoming an orderly at the Surgical Field Mobile Hospital No. 571. Her dedication and expertise earned her numerous medals, including the "For Battle Merit" (1944), "For the Capture of Berlin" (1945), and "For the Victory over Germany" (1945).
Post-War Contributions
Upon her demobilization in 1946, Vekshina continued her medical practice at the Alnashskaya District Hospital. Her outstanding service was recognized with the Order of the Badge of Honor and the title of Honored Physician of the Udmurt ASSR.
Legacy
Achalchi Oki's legacy lives on in Udmurt culture. In 1987, the Achalchi Oki House-Museum was established in the village of Alnashi. To honor her contributions to Udmurt literature, the Udmurt National Literary Prize named after Achalchi Oki was inaugurated in 1994, continuing her legacy in inspiring future literary talents.
