The Portrayal of Alisher Navoi In Qahhor Bakhshi’s Epic

Abstract

This article examines the artistic portrayal of Alisher Navoi in the epic Alisher Navoi in Samarkand created by Qahhor Bakhshi Rahimov. The study analyzes how the bakhshi tradition combines historical reality with artistic imagination in the depiction of Navoi’s personality and life events. Particular attention is given to the role of improvisation, traditional epic style, and national cultural elements in shaping the narrative structure of the epic. The research also explores the influence of written literature, folk legends, and socio-cultural factors on the creation of the work. The image of Navoi in the epic is interpreted not only as a historical figure but also as a symbol of spirituality, justice, knowledge, and humanistic ideals within Uzbek folk epic tradition. The article concludes that Qahhor Bakhshi’s creative approach enriched the Uzbek epic heritage by harmonizing established traditions with innovative artistic expression.