The Maya Kuliyeva Turkmen National Conservatory recently hosted a creative gathering to celebrate the 195th anniversary of the birth of Shukur Bakhshi, an iconic figure in Turkmen musical history and a virtuoso dutar player. The event honored the memory of a musician who is revered not only for his technical brilliance but also as a symbol of peace and diplomacy. It brought together scholars, renowned performers, and students to reflect on the enduring legacy of the "Peaceful Ambassador" of Turkmen music.

The ceremony opened with a powerful performance by the chamber orchestra conducted by Tahir Atayev, playing Nury Halmammedov’s legendary score from the film Shukur Bakhshi. This composition, deeply rooted in national identity, set an inspiring atmosphere for the evening. Throughout the event, People's Artists of Turkmenistan, including Yolaman Nurymov and Akmyrat Charyyev, showcased classical folk pieces such as "Salmadan bökdüren" and "Shadilli," bringing the vibrant sounds of the dutar to life.

Historian Nurnazar Jumanazarov shared profound insights into Shukur Bakhshi’s life journey and his unique position in the golden treasury of Turkmen art. He highlighted how Shukur Bakhshi became a cultural hero through the legend of his musical duel, where his mastery of the dutar was used as a tool to prevent conflict and secure freedom. His story remains a testament to the belief that art has the power to bridge divides and resolve struggles where weapons fail.

The concert program was further enriched by singer Kyyas Durdyyev from the "Turkmengaz" cultural center, who performed the heartfelt song "Dutarym." The creative meeting concluded on a high note with a group of student dutarists performing Shukur Bakhshi’s famous work "Sallana." The celebration of this 195th anniversary reaffirmed the vital role of traditional music in modern Turkmenistan and the deep respect the nation holds for its historical cultural ambassadors.