Thursday, August 29, 2013

Sharq Taronalari festival starts in Samarkand

Sharq Taronalari festival starts in Samarkand

Singers from Saudi Arabia

Tashkent, Uzbekistan  -- The Ninth Sharq Taronalari (Melodies of the East) International Music Festival started in Samarkand on 27 August. The event is held under the aegis of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Gala concert dedicated to opening of the International Festival “Sharq Taronalari” was held at the Registan square.
President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov participated at the opening ceremony and welcomed the guests of the event.
Islam Karimov underscored the essence and significance and the important role of the fete in cementing the peace and harmony among peoples and the world in general, and wished the participants of the festivity every success in their creativities.
The festival has been held each two years starting from 1997. The festival covers almost all continents. Number of participating countries is increasing each year. Some 33 countries participated in 1997 and their number reached to 52 in 2013.

http://www.uzbektraveller.com

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Independence Day of Uzbekistan

Birthday of new Independent Republic of Uzbekistan

The 1st of September, 1991, is the birthday of new independent republic of Uzbekistan. It is the first and most important public holiday of the country. The whole country celebrates the anniversary of Independence in wide, bright and funny way.
Each region (there are 12 regions in Uzbekistan) prepare various festive programs. Wherever you find yourself this day, you will find a fascinating sight: performances of original folk groups, excitable sports events, various shows and noisy craft fairs. And of course what a holiday is without treats? Festive pilaf is served in the centre of a large table, which gathers members of a family, colleagues, neighbors, friends...
The capital of Uzbekistan is preparing to the celebration in advance, because the festive show, which takes place on the main square of the country, the Independence Square, is so spectacular and grandiose that it just takes one’s breath away. Hundreds of extras, dozens of musical and dance groups, the most interesting pop and movie stars participate in it. And in the evening the square is lit up with grandiose fireworks.

Islamic tour to Uzbekistan

Islamic Tour to Uzbekistan




Tour route Tashkent - Samarkand - Bukhara - Tashkent
Total Duration 5 days, 4 nights
Transportation Comfortable AC
Season March - November
Group Size Any
Hotel Type 4* given as an option
Placement TWN / DBL placement
Meal Full Board
Single Supplement $110
Description This tour will introduce you to the architectural marvels of world famous ancient cities of the Great Silk Road – Bukhara and Samarkand, known also as hometowns of many prominent Muslim scholars and religious figures...

Group size (PAX) 1 - 2 3 - 9 10 - 15 16 - 25 26 - 35 over 35
Price per PAX $1000 $800 $700 $600 $500 $400
Price per child* $470
Book this package onlineNote: * - Price per child is given as an extra bed placement
Note: * - Discounts are available upon request

This tour will introduce you to the architectural marvels of world famous ancient cities of the Great Silk Road – Bukhara and Samarkand, known also as hometowns of many prominent Muslim scholars and religious figures. You will visit Memorial Complex of Al Bukhari – the author of the second Holy Book of Muslim World – “Al Jomi As Sakhikh” referred to as the most authoritative collection of Hidiths as well as the Mausoleum of Khazrat Bakhauddin Nakshbandi, the founder of one of the world’s biggest Sufi Orders – Nakshbandiya Tarikat. Over the centuries the pilgrimage to the sacred shrines of these Saints was considered as a Minor Hajj by the Muslims of Central Asia. In Tashkent you will discover the Holy Relic of Muslim Culture and History – Koran of Khalif Osman, the unique and most completely conserved ancient example of Holy Koran in the World.


[edit] Day 1: Tashkent

Early morning arrival in Tashkent by flight:
HY - _____ at __:__ AM.
Transfer to the hotel for check in and rest after long flight.
07:00 - 10:00 Breakfast at the hotel.
13:00 Lunch in a restaurant.
14:00 City sightseeing tour around Tashkent:
Start the tour with visiting the Khast Imam Complex - where the oldest Koran(Osman's Holy book Koran) is kept.
Barakkhan Madrassah (XVI c) - was the headquarters of the Sunni Mufti of ex-Sogdian Central Asia & Kazakhstan. It is interesting for its mosaic and Arabic calligraphy of the late 16 cent. Brick facade and the intricately carved doors made by Samarkand craftsmen Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum - which is the grave of a local doctor, philosopher and poet of Islam who lived from 904 to 979. The portal, inner dome and arcade dated 16th century, when his holy reputation attracted a cemetery.
Kukeldash Madrassah (XVI c). - The grand 16th c. madrassah has domed courtyard. Now the building is returned to service as an Islamic school. Next to it is the tiny 15th c. Juma mosque.
Museum of Applied Arts - bright carved plaster decorations(ganch) and carved wood the building of museum itself is an attraction. There is also an exhibit of ceramics, textiles, jewellery, musical instruments and toys.
Navoyi Theater Square - by 1940, Soviet planners had decided a theatre would greatly enhance an area known as the Drunken Bazaar for its wine-soaked market. Japanese prisoners of war completed construction in 1947.
Amir Temur square and Broadway
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Tashkent.


[edit] Day 2: Tashkent – Samarkand

05:15 Breakfast at the hotel.
07:00 Transfer to the Vostochniy Railway station to take an express train "Registan" to Samarkand (320 km. 4 hours). 11:15 arrival to Samarkand - the Eden of ancient East, the most precious pearl in the Islamic world. Samarkand - called Marakanda in the 4th century BC, whoever tried to conquer it! During the centuries the city has been invaded by troops of Alexander the Great, Arabian invaders, Chenghes Khan and Tamerlane. Today romance of Samarkand still works its magic, alluring the travelers with a dreamlike quality.
11:30 transfer to the spectacular Complex of Imam Al-Bukhoriy, a celebrated personality of Islamic world, which was built with the support of the entire Muslim world.
12:30 Friday Prayer and excursion around Imam Al-Bukhoriy Memorial Complex.
15:00 Lunch at local restaurant in Samarkand city center.
16:00 Hotel check-in, and afternoon sightseeing in Samarkand.
Ulugbek’s Observatory (XV c) – 1st observatory in Orient with 30m sextant built by Ulugbek to make exact astronomical catalogue.
Bibi Khanum mosque (XIVc) - Architects, craftsmen & painters re-constructed it in 5 years.
Gur Amir Mausoleum (XV c) - Timurids dynastic burial vault, unique monument of architecture.
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Samarkand.


[edit] Day 3: Samarkand - Bukhara

07:00 Breakfast at the hotel. Mourning city sightseeing tour around Samarkand:
Registan square (XV – XVII c) - consist of grand madrassah of Ulugbek, Sher Dor & Tillya Kari.
Then, you go to see the Mausoleum of Khodja Daniar or Saint Daniel, a prophet of the Old Testament. This holy place is recognized by Islam, Christianity and Judaism as one of eminent pilgrimage destinations
Shahi - Zinda mausoleum (XIV - XVc) - 'Nown of Dead' a complex of more than 20 unique buildings. Museum of History and Art of Uzbekistan.
13:00 Lunch in a restaurant.
Transfer by coach to Bukhara the City of 1000 and 1 night.
Bukhara – this is one of the best places in Central Asia which was as capital of Samanid state in the 9th and 10th centuries and known in history as “Bukhoro-i Sharif”.
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Samarkand.


[edit] Day 4: Bukhara

07:00 Breakfast in the hotel.
09:00 Start the city tour by visiting Khazrat Bakhauddin Nakhshbandi Memorial Complex.
Poikalon (XII - XVI c) - ensemble in the center of old Bukhara - includes the cathedral mosque "Kalyan Mosque", "Miri Arab" madrassah and the Kalyan minaret (46 m).
Lyabi - Hauz (XVI - XVIIc) - a complex with Nodir - Devon Begi madrassahs big pool surrounded by trees.
Ulugbek Madrassah (1417) - was the earliest of three commissioned by the enlightened Timurid ruler (the other two stand in Samarakand and Gijduvan) and his secular influence dominates the exterior design of the religious college.
Abdul Aziz Khan Madrassah (1652) - glittering in mercifully un-restored 17th century glory.
Tim Abdullah khan - was built in 1577 and was one of the most elegant trade halls in Bukhara where silk and wool was sold by Afghan trades.
Trading Domes consists of three trading centers:
Tok-i-Zargaron (1570) – Jeweler’s Bazaar,
Tok-i-Tilpak Furushon – Cap Maker’s Bazaar,
Tok-i-Sarrafon – Moneychanger’s Bazaar.
Magoki Attori – in 937 the four-pillared mosque was burn the ground in a city-wide fire and in the 12th century the present mosque was erected, from which the focus of the mosque, the original southern portal remains.
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Bukhara.


[edit] Day 6: Tashkent

07:00 Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Bukhara Airport to take a flight back to Tashkent.
HY - 1322 at 09:55
11:30 Arrival to Tashkent and transfer to the hotel to check-in.
13:00 Lunch in a restaurant.
15:00 Visit Zengi Ata Memorial Complex.
18:00 Farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Transfer to the Tashkent International Airport for flight back to home.
End of the tour.


[edit] Included - specific

  • Airplane tickets Bukhara - Tashkent
  • Folklore concert Nodir Devan Begi in Bukhara
  • Hotel placement: 5 nights (early check-in and late check-out is included)
  Check-in time after 14:00
  Check-out time before 12:00
  • Breakfast – 5, lunches – 5, dinners – 5 included according to the program


[edit] Included - general

  • Visa support
  • CIP transfer by arrival
  • AC Comfortable transportation for the whole trip
  • Professional guide (available in different languages) will accompany you and try to give you the best explanation of the site's history, traditions and culture
  • Tour operator and Group Leader will make you feel comfortable and assist you in case of problem 24/7
  • Entrance fees to historical places
  • For each transfer 0.5 L of mineral water
  • Single / Double / Twin hotel rooms as indicated above
  • Luggage handling at the airports and hotels


[edit] Excluded

  • Visa application fee in Uzbek embassy in your country
  • Fees for the use of cameras and videos in the monuments and tourist sites
  • Expenses of personal nature like laundry, telephone, fax, internet, beverages, camera / video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax etc.
  • Personal expenses
  • Local payments in domestic currency, such as tips and gratuities
  • Expenses for things which are not listed in the tour package


[edit] Opportunities

In addition, our program may include special arrangements such as:
  • Similar standard hotels will be provided if in case mentioned hotels are not available at the time of reservation or does not suit travelers
  • Lunches or dinners in private homes of Uzbek families to get closer to the traditions, culture and way of life of local people, to see the process of baking the traditional round bread and cooking tasty osh (pilaf)
  • Different dance shows and entertainment varying from region to region in traditional costumes
  • Special tours to different studios and workshops where You can see various traditional crafts in real.
You can use our suggested programs as they stand or create Your own itinerary according to Your wishes and preferences. We will be happy to assist you in this task.


[edit] Hotels

All hotels are located close to main sightseeing places. After a long and tiring day of walking, you can relax and spend the night pleasantly in those hotels.


Stars Star.pngStar.pngStar.pngStar.png

Le Grande Plaza
Name Le Grande Plaza
Type High class
Rooms    Single($55), Double($65)
City Tashkent
About Good view, good location, good service
More Hotel Le Grande Plaza
Book this hotel online

 

Minor Hajj to Sacred Land Uzbekistan

Minor Hajj to Sacred Land Uzbekistan




Tour route Tashkent - Samarkand - Bukhara - Tashkent
Total Duration 5 days, 4 nights
Transportation Comfortable AC
Season March - November
Group Size Any
Hotel Type 4* given as an option
Placement TWN / DBL placement
Meal Full Board
Single Supplement $110
Description This tour will introduce you to the architectural marvels of world famous ancient cities of the Great Silk Road – Bukhara and Samarkand, known also as hometowns of many prominent Muslim scholars and religious figures...

Group size (PAX) 1 - 2 3 - 9 10 - 15 16 - 25 26 - 35 over 35
Price per PAX $1000 $800 $700 $600 $500 $400
Price per child* $470
Book this package onlineNote: * - Price per child is given as an extra bed placement
Note: * - Discounts are available upon request

This tour will introduce you to the architectural marvels of world famous ancient cities of the Great Silk Road – Bukhara and Samarkand, known also as hometowns of many prominent Muslim scholars and religious figures. You will visit Memorial Complex of Al Bukhari – the author of the second Holy Book of Muslim World – “Al Jomi As Sakhikh” referred to as the most authoritative collection of Hidiths as well as the Mausoleum of Khazrat Bakhauddin Nakshbandi, the founder of one of the world’s biggest Sufi Orders – Nakshbandiya Tarikat. Over the centuries the pilgrimage to the sacred shrines of these Saints was considered as a Minor Hajj by the Muslims of Central Asia. In Tashkent you will discover the Holy Relic of Muslim Culture and History – Koran of Khalif Osman, the unique and most completely conserved ancient example of Holy Koran in the World.


[edit] Day 1: Tashkent

Early morning arrival in Tashkent by flight:
HY - _____ at __:__ AM.
Transfer to the hotel for check in and rest after long flight.
07:00 - 10:00 Breakfast at the hotel.
13:00 Lunch in a restaurant.
14:00 City sightseeing tour around Tashkent:
Start the tour with visiting the Khast Imam Complex - where the oldest Koran(Osman's Holy book Koran) is kept.
Barakkhan Madrassah (XVI c) - was the headquarters of the Sunni Mufti of ex-Sogdian Central Asia & Kazakhstan. It is interesting for its mosaic and Arabic calligraphy of the late 16 cent. Brick facade and the intricately carved doors made by Samarkand craftsmen Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum - which is the grave of a local doctor, philosopher and poet of Islam who lived from 904 to 979. The portal, inner dome and arcade dated 16th century, when his holy reputation attracted a cemetery.
Kukeldash Madrassah (XVI c). - The grand 16th c. madrassah has domed courtyard. Now the building is returned to service as an Islamic school. Next to it is the tiny 15th c. Juma mosque.
Museum of Applied Arts - bright carved plaster decorations(ganch) and carved wood the building of museum itself is an attraction. There is also an exhibit of ceramics, textiles, jewellery, musical instruments and toys.
Navoyi Theater Square - by 1940, Soviet planners had decided a theatre would greatly enhance an area known as the Drunken Bazaar for its wine-soaked market. Japanese prisoners of war completed construction in 1947.
Amir Temur square and Broadway
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Tashkent.


[edit] Day 2: Tashkent – Samarkand

05:15 Breakfast at the hotel.
07:00 Transfer to the Vostochniy Railway station to take an express train "Registan" to Samarkand (320 km. 4 hours). 11:15 arrival to Samarkand - the Eden of ancient East, the most precious pearl in the Islamic world. Samarkand - called Marakanda in the 4th century BC, whoever tried to conquer it! During the centuries the city has been invaded by troops of Alexander the Great, Arabian invaders, Chenghes Khan and Tamerlane. Today romance of Samarkand still works its magic, alluring the travelers with a dreamlike quality.
11:30 transfer to the spectacular Complex of Imam Al-Bukhoriy, a celebrated personality of Islamic world, which was built with the support of the entire Muslim world.
12:30 Friday Prayer and excursion around Imam Al-Bukhoriy Memorial Complex.
15:00 Lunch at local restaurant in Samarkand city center.
16:00 Hotel check-in, and afternoon sightseeing in Samarkand.
Ulugbek’s Observatory (XV c) – 1st observatory in Orient with 30m sextant built by Ulugbek to make exact astronomical catalogue.
Bibi Khanum mosque (XIVc) - Architects, craftsmen & painters re-constructed it in 5 years.
Gur Amir Mausoleum (XV c) - Timurids dynastic burial vault, unique monument of architecture.
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Samarkand.


[edit] Day 3: Samarkand - Bukhara

07:00 Breakfast at the hotel. Mourning city sightseeing tour around Samarkand:
Registan square (XV – XVII c) - consist of grand madrassah of Ulugbek, Sher Dor & Tillya Kari.
Then, you go to see the Mausoleum of Khodja Daniar or Saint Daniel, a prophet of the Old Testament. This holy place is recognized by Islam, Christianity and Judaism as one of eminent pilgrimage destinations
Shahi - Zinda mausoleum (XIV - XVc) - 'Nown of Dead' a complex of more than 20 unique buildings. Museum of History and Art of Uzbekistan.
13:00 Lunch in a restaurant.
Transfer by coach to Bukhara the City of 1000 and 1 night.
Bukhara – this is one of the best places in Central Asia which was as capital of Samanid state in the 9th and 10th centuries and known in history as “Bukhoro-i Sharif”.
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Samarkand.


[edit] Day 4: Bukhara

07:00 Breakfast in the hotel.
09:00 Start the city tour by visiting Khazrat Bakhauddin Nakhshbandi Memorial Complex.
Poikalon (XII - XVI c) - ensemble in the center of old Bukhara - includes the cathedral mosque "Kalyan Mosque", "Miri Arab" madrassah and the Kalyan minaret (46 m).
Lyabi - Hauz (XVI - XVIIc) - a complex with Nodir - Devon Begi madrassahs big pool surrounded by trees.
Ulugbek Madrassah (1417) - was the earliest of three commissioned by the enlightened Timurid ruler (the other two stand in Samarakand and Gijduvan) and his secular influence dominates the exterior design of the religious college.
Abdul Aziz Khan Madrassah (1652) - glittering in mercifully un-restored 17th century glory.
Tim Abdullah khan - was built in 1577 and was one of the most elegant trade halls in Bukhara where silk and wool was sold by Afghan trades.
Trading Domes consists of three trading centers:
Tok-i-Zargaron (1570) – Jeweler’s Bazaar,
Tok-i-Tilpak Furushon – Cap Maker’s Bazaar,
Tok-i-Sarrafon – Moneychanger’s Bazaar.
Magoki Attori – in 937 the four-pillared mosque was burn the ground in a city-wide fire and in the 12th century the present mosque was erected, from which the focus of the mosque, the original southern portal remains.
19:00 Dinner in a restaurant. Overnight in Bukhara.


[edit] Day 6: Tashkent

07:00 Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Bukhara Airport to take a flight back to Tashkent.
HY - 1322 at 09:55
11:30 Arrival to Tashkent and transfer to the hotel to check-in.
13:00 Lunch in a restaurant.
15:00 Visit Zengi Ata Memorial Complex.
18:00 Farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Transfer to the Tashkent International Airport for flight back to home.
End of the tour.


[edit] Included - specific

  • Airplane tickets Bukhara - Tashkent
  • Folklore concert Nodir Devan Begi in Bukhara
  • Hotel placement: 5 nights (early check-in and late check-out is included)
  Check-in time after 14:00
  Check-out time before 12:00
  • Breakfast – 5, lunches – 5, dinners – 5 included according to the program


[edit] Included - general

  • Visa support
  • CIP transfer by arrival
  • AC Comfortable transportation for the whole trip
  • Professional guide (available in different languages) will accompany you and try to give you the best explanation of the site's history, traditions and culture
  • Tour operator and Group Leader will make you feel comfortable and assist you in case of problem 24/7
  • Entrance fees to historical places
  • For each transfer 0.5 L of mineral water
  • Single / Double / Twin hotel rooms as indicated above
  • Luggage handling at the airports and hotels


[edit] Excluded

  • Visa application fee in Uzbek embassy in your country
  • Fees for the use of cameras and videos in the monuments and tourist sites
  • Expenses of personal nature like laundry, telephone, fax, internet, beverages, camera / video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax etc.
  • Personal expenses
  • Local payments in domestic currency, such as tips and gratuities
  • Expenses for things which are not listed in the tour package


[edit] Opportunities

In addition, our program may include special arrangements such as:
  • Similar standard hotels will be provided if in case mentioned hotels are not available at the time of reservation or does not suit travelers
  • Lunches or dinners in private homes of Uzbek families to get closer to the traditions, culture and way of life of local people, to see the process of baking the traditional round bread and cooking tasty osh (pilaf)
  • Different dance shows and entertainment varying from region to region in traditional costumes
  • Special tours to different studios and workshops where You can see various traditional crafts in real.
You can use our suggested programs as they stand or create Your own itinerary according to Your wishes and preferences. We will be happy to assist you in this task.


[edit] Hotels

All hotels are located close to main sightseeing places. After a long and tiring day of walking, you can relax and spend the night pleasantly in those hotels.


Stars Star.pngStar.pngStar.pngStar.png

Le Grande Plaza
Name Le Grande Plaza
Type High class
Rooms    Single($55), Double($65)
City Tashkent
About Good view, good location, good service
More Hotel Le Grande Plaza
Book this hotel online

 

Sunday, August 25, 2013

9th International Music Festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ starts in Samarkand Uzbekistan

9th International Music Festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ starts in Samarkand Uzbekistan


9th International Music Festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ starts in Samarkand Uzbekistan

9th International Music Festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ starts in Samarkand Uzbekistan


Samarkand, Uzbekistan: Largest music festival of the East “Sharq Taronalari” has started in Samarkand Uzbekistan. Around 60 countries including Latvia, Burkina Faso, Russia, Japan, Turkey, Austria, Georgia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Great Britain, China, France, Madagascar, the United States, Thailand, Czech Republic, South Korea, Spain, Estonia, Egypt and others have confirmed their participation. While media of 15 countries are covering this event.

Sharq Taronalari International Festival
 Music contributes to the enrichment of man’s spiritual world, inspires to noble deeds and fills the soul with radiant thoughts, what is proved by ‘Sharq taronalari’.
‘Sharq taronalari’ (‘Melodies of the Orient’) is the international music festival, held by initiative of our President Islom Karimov who is believer of promoting cultural heritage of Central Asia especially of Uzbekistan.
Hence, preparation of the last inauguration of IX International Music Festival is currently going on in the main arena of the festival, located on the Registan Square where over 500 people, famous singers and almost 20 amateur groups of the country are taking part.
The «welcome group» consists of experts of Samarkand branch of Tashkent University of Information Technologies and 150 guide-interpreters selected from excellent students of Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages.
The places where the main events of the grand art forum will be held are festively decorated. Namely the Registan Square, the Square of Tigers, the amphitheater ‘Mujiza’, as well as the Central Park of Culture and Rest named after Alisher Navoi.


Sharq Taronalari International Festival

The streets of the city and public transport are posted with various posters as well as murals illustrating the emblem of the festival, whereas the facades of the city buildings are embellished with festive lights.
It should be noted that the musicians of only 31 countries participated in the first festival in 1997. As a matter of fact, this number increased up to now and the representatives of over 50 countries, including Madagascar, the USA, Spain and many others are taking part in the festival. Above all, almost all the best artists from Tashkent, Navoi, Samarkand and other regions of Uzbekistan, will demonstrate their skills.
 
Sharq Taronalari 9th International Festival
  It does prove that the interest in ‘Sharq taronalari’ is increasing on a global scale every year.
Skills of the music forum participants will be assessed by the 11 members of the international jury from 10 countries. More than 31 foreign and 200 local journalists will be announcing the process of music forum. The Media Press Centre is equipped with the up to date technology for efficient operation.
The places to meet fans of classical music and the guests of the festival will be held in the amphitheater ‘Mujiza’, ‘Nihol’, recreation parks ‘Yoshlik’ named after Alisher Navoi also in Pastdarghom culture park, in mahallas of Samarkand district ‘ Kirkdarkhon’, ‘Obod Turmush’ as well as in School of Music and Art in Djambai district.
International and theoretical conference will be held during the festival’s program. So this year’s conference ‘Musical traditions of the East’ will be held in the context of contemporary culture. More than 30 leading science and art historians from 20 countries of the East will participate.
 The Traditional International Festival will be held from August 25 to 30, in which the best folklore performances will be shown.

Views of the former winners of the festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ are expressed as well.
Tiny Big Mountain, a member of the art ‘Big Mountain Dancers’ (the USA), winner of VII International Music Festival ‘Sharq taronalari’:
‘The Festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ held in 2009 made a great impression on us. We were pleased to be able to attend with our songs, melodies and dances on the stage with representatives of dozens of nations and nationalities.
It is a great honor for every artist to participate in the international festival which serves to raise the profile of Uzbekistan, strengthens the bonds of friendship and unity among peoples. I remember how impressed we were seeing shady gardens and parks, beautiful fountains, historical and architectural monuments, magnificent buildings that indicate a high creative potential of the people of Uzbekistan. They are the people known for their long history and great thinkers who have made great contributions to world civilization.
We knew that the Uzbeks are hospitable people but honestly, a warm reception exceeded all our expectations. It is hard to put into words our impressions from the festival ‘Sharq taronalari’. Every minute of the festival days gave us the most memorable moments. A major festival attended by representatives of dozens of countries, promotes friendship and unity between peoples. We are grateful to the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov for the opportunity to participate in the festival ‘Sharq taronalari’. We wish solar Uzbekistan good luck, peace and stability.’

Fozil Jamshid, the head of the group ‘Sabo’ (Iran), the winner of the 1st place of IV festival and jury member of VI international music festival ’Sharq taronalari’:
‘Sharq taronalari’ is the bridge of friendship and peace. All my life I will be proud of having participated in the festival ‘Sharq taronalari’ for several times. It is a great honor for us that our group won the first place in 2003.
The basic idea of ‘Sharq taronalari’ is to call to beauty and nobility, likewise maintenance and development of a unique musical heritage and traditions of the peoples of the world. International Festival held once in two years at the beautiful land, brings nations and peoples together. It brings together to a single purpose people with different languages, culture and national values on the path.
It was the 2750th anniversary of Samarkand in 2007 when I was participating in the competition and this occasion was a great source of inspiration for us. Every time I come to Samarkand, I visit its unique historical monuments and places of worship. They reflect the work carried out under the leadership of President Islam Karimov and make the Pearl of the East, Samarkand even more beautiful and charming. Changes in this ancient, at the same time eternally young city, testify to the high creative potential, talent and skills of your people. Samarkand, known as the ‘Decorating the face of the Earth’ has always been a centre of science and enlightenment in the East. I would like to note that there are very few cities equal to Samarkand by antiquity and beauty.
We are deeply grateful to the leadership of Uzbekistan for the creation of opportunity to demonstrate world music and culture of different peoples.
9th International Festival Sharq Taronalari
 Other useful Links:

1. Tour to Asrlar Sadosi - Voices of Centuries

2. Asrlar Sadosi or Eco of Ages

3.  Asrlar Sadosi Festival of Tradritions and Culture

4. Festivals and Holidays

5. www.uzbektraveller.com