Two masters of Uzbek Literature honoured in Ankara: Erkin Vahidov and Abdulla Aripov
The International Organisation of Turkic Culture, TURKSOY, honoured two great figures of modern Uzbek literature, Erkin Vahidov and Abdulla Aripov, both Heroes and People’s Poets of of Uzbekistan. The event held at the Presidential National Library in Ankara featured the presentation of the books “Söz Letafeti” – translated into Turkish to mark the 90th anniversary of the birthday of Erkin Vahidov – and “Selected Works” dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the birthday of Abdulla Aripov.
The event began with the screening of promotional videos and an opening speech by TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev who emphasized that literature and books build the strongest spiritual bridge among nations further said: “In Uzbekistan, His Excellency President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attaches the utmost importance to literature and books. This is an exemplary and commendable initiative” and expressed his appreciation as to the commitment of Uzbekistan to the preservation of its literary heritage.
Following TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev, H. E. Mr. Ilhom Haydarov, the Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Ankara, took the floor and highlighted the meaningfulness of the event. In his speech, Ambassador Haydarov stated that: “A passion for literature and books is the strongest spiritual bridge, transcending all borders built between nations” and expressed his great honour and pleasureto welcome participants to the event showcasing Works by these two distinguished Uzbek heroes.
In the powerful speech he delivered at the event, Mr. Minhociddin Mirzo, the First Deputy Chairman of the Authors’ Association of Uzbekistan stressed that Vahidov and Aripov never made any concessions on their ideals of national identity and independence, even during the challenging periods of the twentieth century. Mr. Mirzo underlined the fact that the freedom-inspiring poetry and works of these great authors served as a very solid foundation in laying the spiritual foundations of the independence of Uzbekistan.
Mr. Usmon Azim, the People’s Poet of Uzbekistan who also took the floor at the event stated that literature is the most important mirror reflecting the soul of nations. Mr. Azim further noted that these two masters of literature hold an unshakeable place not only in Uzbek literature but also in the common spiritual world of the entire Turkic World, drawing attention to the importance of passing on their works to future generations.
Mr. Komiljon Rahimov, the Head of Department at the Ministry of Culture of Uzbekistan, emphasised the power of cultural cooperation in his speech. Mr. Rahimov who stated that the translation of these master poets’ works into Turkish further fosters cultural diplomacy and strengthens unshakeable bonds between the two kindred nations.
Prof. Dr. Ilyas Topsakal, Member of Parliament of Samsun and President of the Chingis Aytmatov Institute, addressed the participants, highlighting the historical significance of these books and the strong cultural bonds they foster across cultures. Prof. Dr. Topsakal emphasised that these works not only offer literary richness but also serve as a cultural bridge bringing the Turkish and Uzbek peoples closer together on a spiritual level.
Panel Session on the Poets’ Literary Legacies
The opening speeches were followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by members of the protocol and the poets’ family members prior to a panel session offering a closer look at the literary legacies of Erkin Vahidov and Abdulla Aripov. The panel featured comprehensive academic assessments of the poets’ life and Works by Mr. Gayrat Majid, the Deputy Chairman of the Authors’ Association of Uzbekistan, Prof. Dr. Fatma Açık from the Gazi University and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yaşar Tokay from the Yıldırım Beyazıt University of Ankara.
The poets’ families also took the floor during the event, creating some deeply moving moments for the participants. Abdulla Aripov’s beloved wife, Hanifa Mustafaeva, and Erkin Vahidov’s son, Hurşid Vahidov, shared their personal memories of these great authors with the literature enthusiasts in the hall.
The event, which also featured a photography exhibition showcasing glimpses of the poets’ lives and literary journeys, ended with the presentation of plaquettes to the speakers and a group photograph taken with family members of the poets.
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