The 4th International Bakhshi Festival was held in the city of Khiva, Uzbekistan, with the participation of artists from more than 40 countries. Supported by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the country was represented by the “Shirvan” folk music group, consisting of Qalbinur Ibrahimli, Parviz Mirzayev, Asim Guliyev, and Abuzar Shoyubov all affiliated with the State University of Culture and Arts.

According to EDnews, the group’s outstanding performance was highly praised by the international jury and awarded the festival’s top prize-the Grand Prix.The ensemble began their performance with a traditional ustadnameh and presented a composition featuring four ashig melodies. Their act skillfully showcased the syncretic nature of Azerbaijani ashig art, combining instrumental and vocal music, dance, and theatrical elements. The group, known for preserving the traditions of the Shirvan school ashig art, received great interest and acclaim from the audience.

Among the international jury members was Azerbaijan’s Honored Cultural Worker and Art Studies, Associate Professor Samira Aliyeva.The closing and award ceremony of the festival took place on April 28, during which Uzbekistan’s Minister of Culture, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, presented the Grand Prix trophy and diploma to the “Shirvan” group.

The festival was organized by the Ministry of Culture of Uzbekistan under the patronage of UNESCO and ICESCO. Within the festival, the 2nd Turkic World Cultural Forum and an international scientific conference titled “Bakhshi Art in New Uzbekistan: Modern Research and Perspectives” were also held.

Madina Mammadova\\EDnews