[1] Local people argue a different etymology infusing folk-lore.

[1] The local Khan commissioned an architect to build the tallest minaret of the world at some place nearby but planned to execute him post-completion, lest he would replicate the designs elsewhere.

[1] The architect got to know of this plan, used his resources to construct wings, and flew away from the minaret.

[1] Landing at the fortress, he exclaimed the Turkmen equivalent of "Safe and Sound", which changed to the current name of the city with passage of time.

[1] The city has been identified with the medieval town of Nyzvar, which was sacked by Mongols; however, this identification has been contested.