SAINT PETERSBURG, February 17. /Dunyo IA/. A literary and musical evening was held in memory of the eminent poets and statesmen Alisher Navoi and Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

In his welcoming address, Consul General Abdurahmon Mahmudov emphasized the significance of Alisher Navoi and Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur in shaping and developing the Uzbek literary language, while also highlighting the rich literary heritage of these great thinkers.

Following this,  Vladimir Mikhailenko, expert advisor to the Committee on Local Self-Government, Interethnic and Interfaith Relations of Leningrad Region, delivered a report on the role of Navoi’s legacy in preserving collective historical memory. He also read out a congratulatory message from the Committee’s Chairwoman, Marina Grigoryeva, which underscored that the cultural and philosophical heritage of these remarkable forebears remains relevant today, fostering mutual enrichment of cultures and strengthening cooperation between peoples.

A particular highlight of the evening was a refined dance performed to the melody of Navoi’s ghazal “Suz Demay”, where each gesture and movement evoked a distinctly poetic atmosphere. The hall was further animated by musical and poetic performances: artists, students, and children recited poems and sang songs inspired by the ghazals of Navoi and Babur. Performances on traditional instruments added an authentic and unique cultural dimension to the event.

The intellectual centerpiece of the evening was a “Battle of the scholars”, dedicated to the Eastern thinkers Alisher Navoi and Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur. Teams competed in their knowledge of the poets’ lives, works, and contributions to literature. Participants from multiple countries took part, emphasizing the event’s theme of international friendship and cultural exchange. Winners were awarded commemorative gifts and certificates of recognition.

In addition, attendees were treated to a specially produced video and a theatrical performance portraying the life of Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, adding a vivid, educational dimension to the program. The event’s outcomes received wide coverage in regional media outlets, reflecting its cultural significance.

The evening concluded with a “roundtable” discussion at the Uzbek Cultural Center of Herzen State Pedagogical University titled “Navoi and Babur Today:  Why we need classics in the 21st century”. Participants explored the role of Navoi and Babur as founders of literary tradition and shapers of cultural identity. Discussions highlighted the enduring relevance of their poetry, philosophy and humanist ideas in contemporary society. The “roundtable” also addressed how classical literature can engage younger generations, the ways to present it in a modern context, and how it can coexist with the challenges of digital culture.