In 2026, the global cultural community marks the 585th anniversary of the birth of Alisher Navoi – the great Uzbek poet, thinker, and statesman whose legacy extends far beyond Central Asia. His poetic and philosophical works are imbued with ideas of love, justice, the search for human purpose, and the value of knowledge. These themes are universal. They resonate with people of different nationalities and eras.

Navoi’s heritage is a part of Uzbek culture that today serves as a bridge connecting generations and peoples, reminding us that actual values know no borders.

The same year also marks 105 years since Sergei Yesenin’s visit to Uzbekistan. This is another vivid example of how literary ties become a foundation for dialogue between people.

“Let Good Deeds Be Your Adornment…”

It is symbolic that events to strengthen cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Russia are held precisely in Ryazan, a city with a rich history and traditions, and the birthplace of Sergei Yesenin. The local authorities actively support initiatives to preserve and strengthen interethnic cultural and spiritual connections.

On February 7, at the initiative of the “Almaz” Uzbek National Cultural Autonomy, a musical and poetry evening titled “Let Good Deeds Be Your Adornment…” was organized under the direction of the creative group of Ikhtiandr Kadirov, during which poems by Alisher Navoi and Sergei Yesenin were performed. The event served as a bridge between two great poetic traditions, reminding the audience that art knows no borders.

Also presented during the evening was the original painting “The Crossroads of Cultures” by Valery Plakhotny, in which the artist skillfully reflected the connection between the Uzbek and Russian peoples and the interpenetration of their cultures. In the foreground, the poets Alisher Navoi and Sergei Yesenin are depicted holding books.

It is symbolic that the theme of a crossroads and cultural synthesis today finds not only artistic but also practical continuation. The ideas voiced at the musical and poetry evening are being developed through modern formats of humanitarian cooperation.

In this context, particular importance is attached to the International Ethnofestival “Synthesis of Cultures”, which will take place from May 21 to 24 in Ryazan as part of the project “Fashion with an Accent”. The festival will serve as a platform to showcase ethnocultural heritage, traditional crafts, and contemporary design, as well as to strengthen professional and creative connections.

The Uzbekistan delegation has already been formed, headed by Kamola Gulyamova, Chair of the Central Asian Designers’ Union. Her participation will be an essential step in promoting people’s diplomacy and expanding cultural interaction between the Ryazan region and Uzbekistan.

“I believe that people who understand each other’s poetry will always find a common language. This year we are marking two memorable dates that demonstrate the depth and strength of the cultural dialogue between Uzbekistan and Russia: the 585th anniversary of Alisher Navoi’s birth – a poet whose verses became a spiritual foundation not only for Uzbekistan but for the entire world – and the 105th anniversary of the stay of Sergei Yesenin on Uzbek soil – a Russian poet who wholeheartedly praised the beauty of the East. We hope that the ethnofestival “Synthesis of Cultures” will open up new opportunities for exchanging experience in the field of cultural heritage, showcasing traditional crafts and contemporary design, and strengthening creative and business contacts”, said Kamola Gulyamova.

Chair of the “Almaz” Uzbek National Cultural Autonomy, Zulaykho Qodirova, noted that literature, art, and joint projects help representatives of different peoples better understand each other’s values and worldviews.

“Uzbekistan and Russia are connected not only geographically but also spiritually. Our task is to preserve this bridge between cultures carefully, enrich it with new content, and open new horizons for cooperation. We are confident that the younger generations, raised in an atmosphere of mutual understanding, will build relations on the principles of respect and partnership”, emphasized Zulaykho Qodirova.

Aziza Alimova, UzA