“Andijan Polka” bids for Guinness World Records recognition

At the initiative of TURKSOY, with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Andijan Region Hokimiyat, a large-scale cultural event was organized to secure recognition of the national dance known as the “Andijan Polka” by Guinness World Records.

The long-standing history, rich spiritual heritage, and distinct culture of the Turkic peoples form a significant part of human civilization. To protect and promote this heritage more broadly, TURKSOY, the International Organization of Turkic Culture, selects a city in a Turkic nation each year to serve as the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World.

At the 42nd meeting of the TURKSOY Permanent Council in Aktau, Kazakhstan, held in 2025, Andijan was designated as the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World for 2026.

A significant cultural event is taking place in Andijan region on June 24-25 this year.

The events highlight the collective cultural heritage of the Turkic peoples by featuring music, traditional dances, folk songs, theatrical acts, and modern multimedia displays.

A major highlight of the year was the effort to have the “Andijan Polka” recognized by the Guinness World Records. Thousands of people assembled at the Andijan stadium to perform the national dance.

International experts are currently evaluating the performance, with the results to be announced soon.

Nigora Rakhmonova, Fakhriddin Ubaydullayev, photos by Zukhriddin Umrzoqov, UzA