Khiva, April 26, 2025 – The Europe Today: President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev warmly congratulated all participants and honored guests on the opening of the 4th International Bakhshi Art Festival, held in the historic city of Khiva – renowned as a unique open-air museum and a gem of world heritage.
In his message, President Mirziyoyev extended sincere gratitude, profound respect, and warm wishes to the representatives of esteemed international organizations, fraternal nations, masters of folk art, and distinguished cultural figures from more than 40 countries gathered for this prestigious celebration.
“Welcome to hospitable Uzbekistan, and the ancient and magnificent land of Khorezm!” the President declared, emphasizing the spirit of warmth and friendship characterizing the festival.
The Head of State noted that the international prestige of the festival continues to grow, and hosting the event in Khorezm – a region hailed as the “pearl of the East” – brings a unique spirit and profound significance. He highlighted Khorezm’s rich tradition of storytelling and its contribution to world cultural heritage, including the renowned melodies, songs, and dances such as the celebrated “Lazgi.”
President Mirziyoyev paid special tribute to the talented folk bakhshi nurtured by this sacred land, including Bola Bakhshi Qurbonnazar Abdullayev, Qalandar Bakhshi Ruzimboy Normatov, Abdulla Qurbonnazarov, and Yetmishboy Abdullayev. Through their powerful voices and poetic artistry, they have preserved and elevated the performance of traditional dastans such as Oshiq G’arib and Shohsanam, Go’rug’li, Avazkhon, Alpomish, and Khirmondali. The President emphasized the invaluable place these masterpieces occupy in Uzbekistan’s spiritual and cultural treasury.
Addressing the festival participants, President Mirziyoyev expressed his confidence that attendees would leave with vivid impressions from their encounters with the hospitable Uzbek people, as well as from discovering the country’s rich history, timeless values, sacred sites, and the achievements of the New Uzbekistan, particularly the government’s efforts to promote and develop the art of bakhshi.
He also conveyed his best wishes for the success of the international scientific and practical conference organized within the framework of the festival.
Concluding his message, President Mirziyoyev wished all participants good health, strength, and continued inspiration as they celebrate the noble sentiments and genuine aspirations of the people through the universal language of art.
