RASC News Agency: Reports indicate that the President of Tajikistan has recently issued a directive to print and distribute the epic poem “Shahnamah,” written by Abul Qasem Ferdowsi, among all citizens of the country. This information was disseminated in a newsletter on Tuesday, December 5th, published on the official Facebook page of President Rahman. During a memorial ceremony for the renowned Tajik researcher Babajan Ghafurov, President Rahman emphasized the importance of making “Shahnamah” widely available to the people of Tajikistan, expressing his desire for citizens to gain a deeper understanding of their history, culture, and civilization through this literary masterpiece.
In the newsletter, Imam Ali Rahman highlighted the significance of preserving the rich scientific, literary, cultural, and civilizational history of Tajikistan. He stressed the need for citizens to appreciate and cherish their heritage. Furthermore, President Rahman acknowledged the valuable contributions of Babajan Ghafurov in researching and documenting the history and civilization of Tajiks. This indicates the government’s commitment to promoting and celebrating cultural heritage as a means to combat the growing threat of religious extremism in the country.
It is worth noting that “Shahnamah,” authored by Abul Qasem Ferdowsi, is widely regarded as one of the greatest epic poems in the world. Ferdowsi dedicated thirty years of his life to writing this monumental masterpiece, leaving an indelible mark on Persian literature. The decision to print and distribute “Shahnameh” reflects the government’s recognition of its cultural significance and its efforts to ensure that the citizens of Tajikistan have access to this literary masterpiece. By fostering a deeper connection with their ancestral history, Tajikistan aims to strengthen its cultural identity and safeguard against the influence of extremist ideologies.
It is noteworthy that the resurgence of the Taliban in Afghanistan and the widespread promotion of their activities, along with those of other extremist groups, through Farsi media networks, have captured the interest of certain Tajik youths.