Advisor Heritage & Culture Pakistan to Attend Bakhsi Art Festival in Uzbekistan

Islamabad: 03 May 2023 – H.E. Ambassador of Republic of Uzbekistan to Pakistan Mr. Aybek Arif Usmanov called on Engr Amir Muqam, Adviser to Prime Minister for Political, Public Affairs, National Heritage and Culture today in Islamabad. The Ambassador invited Amir Muqam to grace the 3rd III International Bakhshi Art Festival, which will be held on May 6-8, 2023 in Gulistan (Uzbekistan).

Adviser to PM Engr Amir Muqam is attending the festival. He welcomed the Ambassador and said that the two countries have always had friendly and brotherly relations.

During meeting, they discussed mutual interest issues including possibilities of strengthening ties in cultural heritage.

Engr Amir Muqam said that the two countries should benefit from the experience of each other, adding that there is significant potential in cooperation between the two countries. Economic, political and cultural ties between the two friendly countries are a source of unity.

Ambassador acknowledged the potential for cooperation in the field of cultural heritage and expressed his desire to undertake joint ventures on a progressive basis.

Bakhshi folk music is found in Pakistan as well in which folk singers perform without anyone accompanying.

The International Bakhshi Art Festival was initiated by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev in order to preserve and popularize traditional throat singing music, promote intercultural dialogue and develop cultural diversity.
The program of the event includes unique performances of throat singing from more than 30 countries, as well as the International Conference on “Contemporary bakhshi art: new tones of golden heritage”.

Traditionally and historically mainly men but also a group of women bakhshis emerged in the nineteenth century and continues to contribute to the tradition. The practice is passed on within families and through formal bakhshi schools. The art of bakhshi is a vital part of the Uzbek lifestyle, and the storytellers are always welcoming guests in family ceremonies, rituals, public holidays and local festivities.