NEW DELHI, 14 January 14. /Dunyo IA/. As part of the dynamically expanding cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Uzbekistan and India, Uzbek filmmakers are presenting a unique series of 3D animated films titled “The Childhood of My Great Ancestors” at the International Children’s Film Festival in Kolkata. The festival is scheduled to take place from 23 to 29 January, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The project introduces young audiences to the early years of outstanding scholars whose intellectual legacy laid the foundations of world science. The animated films are designed not only to educate children about history, but also to inspire the younger generation to pursue intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning.

Produced on commission from the Agency of Cinematography of Uzbekistan by the “Astir” animation studio and directed by Abdulatif Khaydarov, the films present, in an engaging and accessible format, the childhoods of great minds, their first steps in science and the qualities of curiosity, creativity and inventiveness that shaped their future achievements.

Beyond familiarising young viewers with Uzbekistan’s rich historical and scientific heritage, the films encourage independent thinking, nurture critical reasoning and foster a genuine aspiration for knowledge and discovery underscoring the role of cultural storytelling in shaping the values of future generations.

One of the films, focusing on Abu Rayhan Beruni, tells the story of his journey from a humble boy who collected firewood to a legendary scholar. Audiences witness the curious young Beruni learning to work with the astrolabe and gradually realizing that the geography of the Earth and the study of minerals were only partially understood - laying the groundwork for his future contributions to science.

Another film, dedicated to the childhood of Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, highlights the early brilliance of the future father of algebra. The narrative depicts how the young Muhammad impresses experienced builders with his calculations, assisting them in precisely positioning columns and the dome of a palace, thereby revealing the early signs of his extraordinary mathematical talent.

The animation focusing on Ahmad Fergani showcases the early inventiveness of the future genius, who, even as a child, explained the shape of the Earth to his friends. Central to the story is his creation of a device to measure river water levels, designed to ensure fair taxation for local farmers.

The screenings of films about Beruni, al-Khwarizmi and Fergani in Kolkata provide a unique opportunity to introduce international audiences to the contributions of Uzbek scholars to global civilization. They also position Uzbekistan as a country that cherishes its historical heritage while embracing the future through creativity and innovation.

In parallel, in January 2026, continuing this cultural exchange, the Uzbek dance troupe “Tarona” will perform at the 11th International Dance and Music Festival in New Delhi.

The prominent presence of Uzbek artists and filmmakers at major cultural venues in India underscores a new phase in bilateral relations, where art serves as a key instrument of mutual understanding and friendship.

These initiatives highlight the sustained efforts to strengthen ties and foster goodwill between the peoples of Uzbekistan and India, while also reflecting the growing international interest in contemporary Uzbek cultural productions.

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