By Raza Syed
Vibrant societies hold steadfast to their customs, venerate their heroes, and uphold their cultural legacy. The Tajik people stand proudly among such nations, not only preserving their centuries-old traditions and culture through untold sacrifices but also shining brightly on the global stage today. Whether poets, athletes, diplomats, or writers, Tajik heroes exemplify excellence and intellect, bringing honor to their homeland.
The Tajik Embassy in London has consistently led the charge in acquainting the Western world with the rich tapestry of Tajik culture, traditions, and esteemed figures.
To further enhance this tradition, the Tajik Embassy commemorates its esteemed poet, Rudaki, by organizing a grand and vibrant ceremony.
In a significant cultural event, the Embassy of Tajikistan in London recently unveiled a bust of Abu Abdullah Rudaki, the luminary who laid the foundation for New Persian Poetry, at the esteemed SOAS University of London (the School of Oriental and African Studies).
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Ambassador Rukhshona Emomali, the representative of Tajikistan, and Professor Joanna Newman, the Vice-Chancellor of SOAS.
At the bust unveiling ceremony, HE Mrs Rukhshona Emomali – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Tajikistan to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland welcomed guests by stating … “Today we gather here at the School of Oriental and African Studies, a beacon of cultural and academic excellence, to celebrate a momentous occasion – the inauguration of the bust of Abu ‘abd Allah Jafar ibn Mohammad Rudaki, a towering figure regarded as the father of Tajik – Persian classical literature. And today it’s my honour and privilege to extend this statue as a gift of the Government of Tajikistan to the SOAS. This bust symbolizes more than just a tribute to a legendary poet.
… As we stand here at SOAS, a place dedicated to understanding and appreciating the rich tapestry of the world’s cultures and histories, let us remember the significance of Rudaki’s work. It is a reminder that art and literature are universal languages that can bridge divides, connect hearts, and enrich our collective human experience”.
In her brief speech, Professor Joanna Newman, the Vice-Chancellor of SOAS, pointed to the close cultural ties between the Persian-speaking nations and the British people, and stressed the need for the expansion of cultural and academic relations among the countries.
She also expressed her thanks to the Embassy of Tajikistan for organizing several summit meetings of top Tajik and British universities over the past few years.
Rudaki’s legacy, particularly his cultivation of the Tajik-Persian language and literature, continues to echo in the hearts and minds of people in Tajikistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and beyond. His work serves as a valuable resource for Aryan scholars across the globe.
The unveiling of the bust was followed by engaging academic and cultural discussions centered around Rudaki’s life and legacy. Over 200 guests, including Qobiljon Khushvakhtzoda, the President of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, and experts from Tajik-Persian and British think tanks, participated in these enlightening dialogues.
The event was well attended by diplomats from Central Asian countries,groups of students and people from all walks of life.
Coinciding with the International Navrouz holiday, these scholarly and cultural exchanges transformed into a grand celebration of Tajik science and culture in the United Kingdom. They not only served as a prelude to Navrouz but also offered a dignified showcase of Tajikistan’s rich scientific, literary, and cultural heritage.This event, in my opinion, underscores the importance of cultural exchange and the enduring influence of historical figures like Rudaki.
