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Uzbekistan Encourages Civil Servants in Tashkent to Wear National Dress

Shavkat Umurzakov, the khokim of Tashkent, has signed a decree launching the National Tashkent project, an initiative aimed at promoting Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and national traditions within the capital. The project includes a wide range of activities, from redesigning public spaces to reflect traditional Uzbek aesthetics to encouraging civil servants to adopt national attire. Public transportation, markets, parks, and other spaces across Tashkent will be adorned in a national style as part of this effort. Traditional Clothing for Civil Servants As part of the initiative, government employees in Tashkent are encouraged to wear traditional Uzbek clothing during work hours, provided it does not conflict with existing uniform requirements. To further promote this practice, Fridays have been designated as “National Dress Day” for civil servants. Employees of khokimiyats, departments, and other government agencies are being urged to embrace traditional attire on these days. A special working group, led by Shakhnoza Sultanova, deputy khokim and head of the Department for Family and Women's Affairs, has been tasked with overseeing the project. This group has developed an action plan that includes educational programs, public events, and support for local entrepreneurs who specialize in the production of ethnic clothing. Celebrating Uzbek Culture The National Tashkent project emphasizes integrating Uzbek cultural elements into mass events such as holidays, exhibitions, concerts, and sports competitions. Participants at these events will don traditional costumes, while the programs will feature folk games, dances, and songs. Contests and awards will further highlight the richness of Uzbek traditions. Additionally, the initiative envisions creating television programs, publishing articles in both traditional and social media, and launching public challenges such as “National Dress for Everyone.” A contest titled “The Best Promoter of National Traditions” will recognize individuals or organizations that effectively advocate for Uzbek culture. Educational institutions will also participate by hosting lectures on the history of national crafts and clothing. Cultural Zones for Tourists The project includes measures to enhance the cultural experience for tourists visiting Tashkent. Special zones will be created, featuring craft workshops, photo opportunities with national costumes, and curated cultural routes. Hotels and restaurants will host exhibitions and competitions to showcase traditional values, further engaging both residents and visitors. Public transportation will also reflect the project’s goals, with buses and transport cards decorated with national patterns. Similarly, the facades and interiors of shopping centers, markets, and museums will incorporate traditional Uzbek designs. Schools will see the introduction of “National Classrooms” decorated in the spirit of Uzbek culture. Strengthening National Identity The National Tashkent project is a comprehensive effort to preserve Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage, strengthen national identity, and pass down traditions to younger generations. By raising awareness of ethnic customs and promoting national pride, the initiative seeks to enrich the cultural fabric of the capital while fostering a deeper appreciation for Uzbekistan’s historical and artistic legacy.

Education Culture Religion Children

Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan Issues Statement on Quadroberism

The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan (DUMK) has expressed concern over the growing spread of "quadroberism" among children and adolescents. This phenomenon involves individuals imitating the habits of animals by wearing masks, tails, and ears, as well as behaving like fictional creatures. The DUMK addressed the issue in a recent statement. In its statement, the DUMK emphasized that Islam places humans above all other creatures, granting them reason and consciousness. To support this position, the administration cited verses from the Holy Quran: “We have honored the descendants of Adam, allowed them to move on land and sea, endowed them with benefits, and granted them a great advantage over the many whom We created.” Another verse states: “We created man in the best possible image.” The DUMK argues that the deliberate imitation of animals - including their habits, sounds, and behaviors - constitutes a distortion of divine creation. It further noted that Islam forbids any form of behavior that undermines the distinct identity of humans. For example, the imitation of one gender by another is prohibited, and, by extension, imitating animals is considered equally inadmissible under Shariah. Cultural Expressions vs. Quadroberism However, the DUMK drew a clear distinction between quadroberism and metaphorical comparisons or cultural expressions. The statement clarified that comparing humans to animals in a metaphorical sense - such as likening bravery to a lion, cunning to a fox, or patience to a camel - does not fall under the definition of quadroberism. Similarly, theater performances, children’s games, and other cultural activities that do not involve a change in personal identity are not condemned. The DUMK underscored that quadroberism, which includes imitating animal sounds, moving on all fours, and adopting animal behaviors, is "strictly prohibited by Shariah." Additionally, it addressed the trend of “quadrobics,” a form of exercise that involves running on all fours to imitate animals. This activity, derived from the combination of the words "quadro" (four) and "aerobics," was described as a concerning trend among youth. Quadroberism in Central Asia and Beyond The quadrober subculture, which involves young people mimicking animal behavior by running on all fours and using animal-themed accessories, has gained traction not only in Kazakhstan, but also in neighboring Uzbekistan and Russia. Authorities in these countries are taking measures to address the phenomenon. In Kazakhstan, deputies have proposed conducting a thorough study of the quadrober phenomenon and, if deemed necessary, developing legislation to combat it. In Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that manifestations of the quadrober subculture among children and adolescents would be treated as a failure of parental responsibility, punishable by a fine of five basic calculation units. In Russia, State Duma deputies are drafting legislation to ban the promotion of destructive ideologies, including quadroberism. Russian lawmakers and psychologists have voiced concerns that the hobby could negatively affect children’s mental health. As the debate continues across the region, the DUMK’s statement adds a spiritual perspective to the growing conversation about the implications of quadroberism.

Culture Digital Technologies Art and Culture Central Asian Art

Tajikistan Opens Its First Digital Art Gallery Highlighting Local Activists’ Work

The Khujand branch of the NGO Office of Civil Liberties has launched Tajikistan's first digital art gallery, which showcases the work of local activists. The digital gallery features art that addresses pressing social issues, such as domestic violence, discrimination, and environmental threats. It includes a diverse range of art forms, including digital works, photography, stories, and videos. [caption id="attachment_27723" align="aligncenter" width="1296"] Sad Dollar by Timur Shapirov; image: tut-gallery.tilda.ws[/caption] Prominent Artists and Initiatives The platform features contributions from prominent Tajik artists, including Zilola Imomova and Amina Ayyubi. It also includes works by winners and participants of art "hackathons" previously organized by the Office of Civil Liberties in Dushanbe and Khujand. Representatives of the organization explained the gallery’s purpose: “We aim not only to support art activists, but also to draw society's attention to pressing problems.” [caption id="attachment_27720" align="aligncenter" width="642"] Motherlandy by Muharram Buranova; image: tut-gallery.tilda.ws[/caption] Art with a Message Each work in the gallery is accompanied by a description explaining the idea behind it. Many of the featured pieces delve into topics such as gender inequality and social stereotypes, reflecting the personal stories and lived experiences of the artists. "Motherlandy" by Muharram Buranova, for example reimagines a powerful heroine as a positive, feminine counterpart to Homelander. Motherlandy radiates strength and courage as she shields a young girl from harassment, standing tall amidst a menacing crowd of zombie-like men, embodying the oppression and cruelty faced by girls in Tajikistan. With her steadfast presence, Motherlandy becomes a beacon of hope, inspiring belief that justice is not only needed but possible. Through this initiative, the digital gallery is seeking to amplify the voices of activists and provoke meaningful conversations about social issues in Tajikistan.

Culture Religion Christmas orthodox World Cultural Heritage Society

How Orthodox Christmas Is Celebrated in Central Asia

Orthodox Christmas, observed on January 7, holds a significant place in Central Asia, even in predominantly Muslim countries such as Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. This article explores how the holiday is celebrated in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Kazakhstan Orthodox Christmas in Kazakhstan is a public holiday, alongside the Muslim celebration of Kurban-Ayt (Eid al-Adha). This recognition stems from the efforts of Kazakhstan's first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, who proposed in 2005 during the XI session of the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan to declare both holidays as non-working days. Despite opposition from the Constitutional Court, which cited the country's secular constitution, members of the parliamentary faction Asar, led by Nazarbayev's daughter Dariga Nazarbayeva, and the presidential party Otan amended the Labor Code to accommodate these holidays. Since then, Orthodox Christmas and Kurban-Ayt have been official holidays. Celebrations in major cities include festive liturgies. In Almaty, the Ascension Cathedral holds a service beginning at 11pm on January 6, followed by a midnight procession. In Astana, the Assumption Cathedral similarly hosts a midnight service. For those unable to attend, events from the Assumption Cathedral are live-streamed on the YouTube channel “Live Broadcasts of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan.” Uzbekistan Orthodox Christians comprise 4-5% of Uzbekistan’s population of over 37.5 million. Uzbekistan is part of the Tashkent and Uzbekistan Diocese under the Russian Orthodox Church. The Cathedral of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tashkent is the focal point of Christmas celebrations. Services begin at 11.30pm on January 6 and end at 3.30am. To ensure maximum participation, the cathedral holds five separate liturgies. Metropolitan Vikenty of the Tashkent and Uzbekistan Diocese explains, “Traditionally, the liturgy was held at night because the Nativity of Christ took place at night. But not everyone can attend a night service, so we perform several liturgies.” Kyrgyzstan Approximately 350,000 Orthodox Christians live in Kyrgyzstan, according to Bishop Daniel of Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan. The country is part of the Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church. January 7 is a public holiday in Kyrgyzstan, aligning with the extended New Year vacations, which last from January 1 to 7. Festive services are held at the Resurrection Cathedral and the Church of the Holy Prince Vladimir in Bishkek. Tajikistan In Tajikistan, the Orthodox Christian community numbers around 80,000, or 1.2% of the population, though regular church attendance is much smaller. The country is under the jurisdiction of the Dushanbe Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church. Christmas services are held at St. Nicholas Cathedral in Dushanbe, beginning at 11pm on January 6 and lasting about three hours. The diocese oversees six churches in Tajikistan, served by five priests. Turkmenistan As of 2019, Turkmenistan’s Orthodox Christian population is about 485,000, or 9% of the total population. All Orthodox parishes are under the Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church, established in 2007. Services on Christmas Eve and January 6 are conducted in all 12 Orthodox churches in Turkmenistan, adhering strictly to church traditions. According to Archpriest John, dean of...

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“Success is Possible in Kazakhstan”: An Interview with Fashion Brand Qazaq Republic

Qazaq Republic has become a popular brand among young people in Kazakhstan. The brand has become a success story for entrepreneurship within Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The Times of Central Asia spoke with Yermek Kazym, co-founder and CEO, to learn more about the brand, its message, and how it achieved its success. TCA: Qazaq Republic celebrates Kazakhstan’s heritage through fashion. What inspired the brand's creation, and what is its story? When the founder of Qazaq Republic, Saken Joldas, was studying in the US, he would always bring gifts from Kazakhstan for his friends. But the available options were always uninspiring. This led him to dream about creating something more appealing to showcase modern Kazakhstan's vibrant youth culture and style. In 2016, when the mayor of Almaty announced a competition to design a new city logo, Saken shared his designs with the public. He created digital versions of the design to print on mugs and t-shirts and posted them on Facebook. The response from the community was incredible—people loved the concept and showed great interest in purchasing the items. That’s how the idea for the brand began to take form, starting right in his kitchen. The first big order came from the Duty-Free store at Almaty Airport. They requested around 30 t-shirts to sell. As the business grew, Qazaq Republic was given space at the biggest toy and bookstore in Almaty, Meloman. With the rise in sales, we decided to open QR’s very first store. When designing it, we even considered adding a coffee shop in case the store didn’t work out. QR’s first store opened in November 2019 on 47 Mametova street, but then the pandemic hit. While malls were closing, our store had the advantage of being a standalone store. To help people feel better during difficult times, we created unique cotton masks with the phrase “Bari jaqsy bolady” (Everything will be alright). Instead of selling them, we gave them free of charge with orders over 5,000 tenge. Customers started placing smaller orders just to get these masks, giving us a strong sense of support and confidence that we were on the right track. TCA: Could you walk us through the creative process of designing a typical Qazaq Republic collection? We’ve built a solid foundation now. People used to think we were just buying ready-made items and putting our logo on them, but that's not the case. Like global brands such as Nike and Ikea, we design our products in Kazakhstan while outsourcing production and manufacturing to trusted partner factories in Turkey and China. We oversee every detail, from creating labels and designs to developing patterns, ensuring complete control over the process. This approach allows us to concentrate more on perfecting our products. The brand's uniqueness lies in creating products that make everyday life comfortable and functional while staying modern and high-quality. TCA: Who is the target audience for Qazaq Republic, and how has it evolved since the brand’s inception? When we first launched our brand, we assumed it...

Cultural Heritage national traditions Traditions Culture

How Christmas is Celebrated in Central Asia

In predominantly Islamic countries, celebrating Christian Christmas reflects a spirit of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. On December 25, people of all backgrounds are welcome to join the celebrations. Catholics and Protestants are minority Christian groups in Central Asia. Catholicism was introduced to the region as early as the 12th century, but Christianity was eradicated during the Timurid era and later revived under the Russian Empire. Today, Catholics and Protestants in the region are largely descendants of German and Polish immigrants, as well as employees of foreign embassies and international companies. Kazakhstan In Kazakhstan, unlike Orthodox Christmas on January 7, December 25 is not a public holiday. There are no large-scale national festivities, but many Kazakhstani people extend warm greetings to their Catholic neighbors. According to the 2021 census, Catholics account for 0.57% of the population (about 19,000 people) and Protestants 0.28% (approximately 9,500) within a total Christian population of over three million. Despite the small number of adherents, festive services are held in major cities. The Church of the Holy Trinity in Almaty hosts Midnight Mass and other celebrations, and St. Joseph's Church in Astana also offers services. Both cities organize organ music concerts that attract many non-Catholic attendees. Other cities, including Karaganda, Atyrau, Pavlodar, Petropavlovsk, Kostanai, and Ust-Kamenogorsk, also have Catholic parishes. Kazakhstan’s Catholic communities observe traditions that appeal to many, regardless of religion. Christmas fairs, nativity scenes, and festive dishes such as roasted goose, ducks, pies, and Christmas cookies add to the celebrations. Carols and children’s theatrical performances are also a highlight. Christmas services are conducted in Russian, Polish, and English, reflecting the region’s diversity. Kyrgyzstan Catholic communities in Kyrgyzstan are notably multi-ethnic. At the Roman Catholic parish of St. Michael the Archangel in Bishkek, attendees include professionals and students from India, Pakistan, and other nations. According to estimates, the Catholic population in Kyrgyzstan is approximately 1,500, with numbers growing due to newcomers. A unique tradition in Kyrgyzstan is the preparation of twelve fasting dishes on Christmas Eve, symbolizing the months of the year and the twelve apostles. This tradition marks the end of the four-week Advent fast and the beginning of the festive mass on the evening of December 24. Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan The Catholic community in Tajikistan is small, numbering about 100, mostly foreigners. The two parishes in the country include one in Dushanbe, while missionaries manage a kindergarten at a correctional labor colony in Nurek. In Turkmenistan, the congregation in Ashgabat is also small, with Christmas services conducted in Russian, English, and Turkmen. In Uzbekistan, Christmas celebrations are held in Tashkent and Samarkand, with services occasionally conducted in Korean. The Catholic communities in these countries, while small, maintain vibrant celebrations, with Protestants and some Orthodox Christians also participating. A Time for Unity and Celebration In Central Asia, Protestant and Orthodox Christians often join Catholic Christmas celebrations. The festivities on December 25, featuring Santa Claus and other traditions, mark the beginning of winter holidays and are cherished by people of all faiths.