A new book presentation was held at the Islamic Civilization Center
A presentation of the travelogue “To Herat, to visit my grandfather” by Shahriyor Shavkat, a poet, journalist, and recipient of the “Kelajak Bunyodkori” Medal, was held at the library of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan.
The event was attended by literary scholars, academics, writers and poets, students, and readers. During the meeting, participants shared their views on the history behind the book’s creation, its content and significance, and its role in enhancing the spiritual and intellectual development of young people.
According to the author, the book is primarily dedicated to the younger generation and aims to inspire in them a love for and interest in the invaluable scholarly and spiritual heritage left by such great ancestors as Alisher Navoi, Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, Abu Rayhan Beruni, and Shah Mashrab.
“The older generation knows Navoi well. However, we need to further strengthen this interest among young people. I believe that if ‘To Herat, to visit my grandfather’ reaches my peers, it will inspire in them a sincere love and respect for the legacy of our great scholars and thinkers. This book is one of our first steps along this path,” said Shahriyor Shavkat.
The author also emphasized that holding the book presentation specifically at the Islamic Civilization Center carries profound symbolic significance. He noted that the rich spiritual and scholarly heritage left by our great ancestors is closely intertwined with Islamic enlightenment and scholarship.
Speaking at the event, Suvon Meli, Honored Cultural Worker of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Doctor of Philological Sciences, particularly noted that the book offers a sincere and vivid portrayal of the lives of Uzbeks living in Afghanistan, their devotion to their native language, their national values, and their deep reverence for the heritage of their great ancestors.
“Above all, anyone who reads this book will feel proud to be Uzbek. The work strengthens young people’s sense of national pride, self-awareness, and respect for the heritage of our ancestors. In today’s complex world, preserving national unity and identity is more important than ever. From this perspective, I believe this is one of the books that every young person should read,” he said.
At the end of the event, participants had the opportunity to learn more about the activities of the library of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. They explored its modern facilities, collection of rare manuscripts, electronic book database, and opportunities available for academic research, recognizing the library as a modern center of learning dedicated to advancing scholarship and spiritual development.
The participants emphasized that the library is not merely a place where books are preserved, but also an important scholarly and educational center that fosters an environment for academic research, intellectual and educational dialogue, and collaboration among scholars, researchers, and young people.