Established in December 1992, the Museum of Bakhshi in the city of Dashoguz stands as a unique cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Turkmenistan’s traditional folk singers and storytellers. The museum makes a significant contribution to the study of national spiritual values and the popularization of the Bakhshi art form. By showcasing the depth of Turkmen musical traditions, it serves as a bridge between the ancient history of the steppe bards and the modern cultural landscape.

The museum’s collection houses thousands of literary works on music and songwriting, along with hundreds of invaluable artifacts. Among the highlights are authentic national musical instruments, including the dutar, ghijak, gopuz, and tuiduk. These instruments are not merely displays; they represent the soul of Turkmen folk music, each crafted to produce the distinct melodies that have defined the nation’s identity for centuries.

The exhibits detail the lives and artistic journeys of legendary figures such as Magtymguly Garlyev, Nazar-baga, and Ore Shykh. The museum also honors the legacy of prominent female bakhshis, including Akchagul Myradova and Sulgun Meretgeldieva, highlighting their role in the evolution of the genre. Today, modern performers maintain a close relationship with the museum, ensuring that the techniques and emotional depth of their predecessors are passed on to new audiences.

Continuous efforts are made to expand the museum’s archives, with recent additions including a portrait of the renowned People’s Bakhshi, Ilaman Annaev. During the Bakhshi-Storytellers Festival held in Dashoguz, the museum becomes a central hub for participants and visitors alike. It offers a profound opportunity for guests to explore the historical roots of Turkmen storytelling and appreciate the enduring influence of the bakhshi on the nation’s cultural spirit.