Alisher Navoi

Alisher Navoi – a great Uzbek poet, thinker, statesman, and one of the founders of Turkic literature. Through his poetry in the “Chagatai language” (Old Uzbek), he left a literary legacy for the entire Turkic world.

Life and scholarly work

Alisher Navoi was born on February 9, 1441, in Herat. From a young age, he was thirsty for knowledge and also created freely in Persian and Arabic. He wrote the “Khamsa” – five great epics – taking Uzbek epic poetry to new heights. Political activity During the Timurid Empire, Navoi held high-ranking government positions. He was known for his just rule, generosity, and patronage of science and the arts. Between 1469–1472 he served as a seal-bearer, and from 1472–1476 he was a vizier. In 1487–1488 he governed the province of Astarabad. The Timurid ruler and Navoi’s childhood friend Husayn Bayqaro held him in high regard and consulted him on all matters. Works and legacy 1. “Khamsa” – a collection of five major epics 2. Philosophical and scholarly works such as “Language of the Birds”, “Beloveds of the Hearts”, and “Debate of Two Languages” 3. Poetry – ghazals, rubaiyat, qasidas, and more Fame and symbolism 🔹 Alisher Navoi is a symbol of pride and spirituality for the Uzbek people. 🔹 His legacy has been recognized by UNESCO. 🔹 Across Turkic-speaking nations, there are literary works, research, and monuments dedicated to Navoi. Enduring heritage Today, Navoi’s works are still studied and taught in schools and universities. Statues of him stand in many countries around the world. Every year on February 9, his birthday is widely celebrated.