Iran, Azerbaijan to coproduce film about Hakim Nizami

Iran and Azerbaijan have announced a joint cinematic project to celebrate the legacy of the 12th-century Persian poet Hakim Nizami, in a bid to commemorate their shared cultural heritage.  

During his visit to Baku for the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad Mehdi Esmaeili highlighted the importance of cultural figures like Nizami as bridges between the nations.

He emphasized the role of such figures in fostering brotherhood and mutual understanding between Iran and Azerbaijan.

Esmaeili expressed hope for the collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan in producing the film, recognizing the significance of Persian poetry and its enduring influence in both countries.

Hakim Nizami, also known as Nizami Ganjavi, is revered as one of the greatest romantic epic poets in Persian literature.

His works, including the famed ‘Khamseh’ or ‘Panj Ganj’ (five treasures), continue to resonate across Iran, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.

Recognizing Nizami's enduring legacy, March 12 has been marked as Nizami Ganjavi Commemoration Day in the Iranian calendar.

Statues of Nizami can be found not only in Iran and Azerbaijan, but also in other countries, including China and Italy.

Esmaeili's visit to the National Museum of Azerbaijan Literature also sparked discussions on potential collaborative film projects with neighboring countries.

Similar initiatives are underway in Turkmenistan, focusing on poet Magtymguly Pyragy, and in Pakistan, honoring poet Iqbal Lahori.

Magtymguly Pyragy, a revered figure in Turkmen literary history, and Allama Muhammad Iqbal, known as Iqbal Lahori, a prominent figure in Urdu and Persian literature, are both celebrated for their profound contributions to literature and philosophy.

MM/MG