― 19 апреля 2026 г.

Joint Cinema Project of the Turkic World: “Hoja Nasreddin: My Friend in Hard Times” filmed in Turkmenistan

Another milestone has been reached in the shooting of the major film project “Hoja Nasreddin: My Friend in Hard Times”, which aims at the transmission of the shared cultural heritage of the Turkic World to future generations through cinema and is being carried out by the International Organisation of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY). One of the project’s most significant stages of the project which takes place in Turkmenistan has been successfully completed in historical sites of Ashgabat and the surrounding area.

This comprehensive production launched in accordance with the decision of the Permanent Council of TURKSOY during its meeting held in Shusha in 2023, brings together filmmakers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye and Uzbekistan around a shared cultural initiative.

The shooting of the scenes taking place in Ashgabat, carried out with the support of the “Turkmenfilm” association operating under the Turkmenistan State Committee for Television, Radio and Cinematography successfully ended thanks to the harmonious cooperation of the international team. The rich historical heritage and natural beauty of Turkmenistan added a unique depth to the story of Nasreddin Hoca, the wiseman of the people.

Focused on the character of Nasreddin Hoca, who conveys our shared values and ancient folk wisdom through humour, the film serves as a powerful cultural bridge between Turkic peoples,. With Zaur Darabzadeh serving as producer and Vagif Mustafayev as director, the project is expected to make a significant contribution to promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Turkic peoples on the international stage. Following the filming process in Turkic World countries, the project will move into the post-production phase.

Master’s Touch: Vagif Mustafayev

Behind the project’s artistic vision stands Vagif Mustafayev, a People’s Artist of Azerbaijan and one of the most distinguished representatives of the Turkic World in cinematography. 

With his experience and talent, Vagif Mustafayev who is both the screenwriter and director of the film, is enrichening world cinema through this most comprehensive cinematic project of the Turkic World.