Uzbekistan showcases heritage at International Silk Road festival
Festival in Margilan brings regional artists, musicians, and artisans together to celebrate crafts, music, and oral folk traditions
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — The International Silk Road Festival has opened in Margilan, a historic city in the Fergana Valley known for its silk weaving traditions. The event celebrates the region’s cultural heritage through traditional music, crafts, and storytelling, underscoring Central Asia’s role as a crossroads of civilizations.
According to UZ Daily, the festival has drawn participants from across Uzbekistan as well as delegations from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Organizers say the goal is to safeguard oral folk art, foster cultural exchange, and promote interethnic dialogue across the wider Silk Road region.
Craft exhibitions from Namangan, Andijan, and Fergana showcased the skill of local artisans whose work reflects centuries-old techniques in textiles, ceramics, and embroidery. Visitors praised the craftsmanship on display, noting its importance not only for cultural identity but also for sustaining livelihoods and boosting the creative economy.
Music and performance formed the centerpiece of the festival. Classical ensembles performed traditional compositions while folklore groups staged dances and songs rooted in local communities. Masters of askiya, Uzbekistan’s sharp-witted folk storytelling, captivated audiences with humor that has long been a vehicle for both entertainment and social commentary.
The program also featured a national conference on intangible heritage, where scholars and cultural experts discussed preservation strategies. Exhibitions of paintings, photography, and collections of oral traditions further highlighted the interplay between historic art forms and contemporary cultural expression.
A jury is evaluating performances to recognize standout participants, but officials emphasize that the festival’s true value lies in strengthening cross-border cultural ties, inspiring youth engagement in heritage, and positioning Uzbekistan as a hub for Silk Road cultural diplomacy.
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