Jakhongir NOMOZOV
Moderator 
"TURK WORLD WRITERS AND POETS FESTIVAL " HELD IN TALAS
From October 1 to November 4, in Talas, Kayseri Province, Turkey, the “Talas Meeting of Turk World Writers and Poets” took place. The event brought together 54 poets and writers from 14 countries, serving as a true celebration of literature, friendship, interethnic unity, and the convergence of hearts and pens.
The festival was organized collaboratively by the T.C. Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), the Talas Municipality, and the Turkish Literature Foundation.
During the festival, participants not only visited Talas’ historical and notable landmarks but also attended concerts featuring songs that celebrated peace, harmony, and patriotism. Esteemed professors and scholars delivered lectures on the works and lives of Jengiz Dagji, Bakhtiyar Vakhapzade, Nejip Fazil Kisakurek, Omer Seyfettin, Chingiz Aitmatov, Anar Rzayev, and Abdulkhamid Chulpon.
Songs performed in multiple languages resonated in the hearts of the audience. University meetings, lectures by professors and scholars, lively discussions, and Q&A sessions offered deep insights into literature, art, spirituality, and enlightenment. Poems recited by poets and writers in their native languages on stage were warmly received, proving once again that literature and art know no borders.
The festival was not only a celebration of literature but also a festival of friendship, peace, and love. I stepped out of my familiar daily world and entered a magical realm — a world of literature and soulful people in Talas. The clear sky, even during cold autumn days, the gentle winds carrying the breath of summer, the sun’s warmth that filled our hearts with excitement, and the snow-capped high mountains resembled a living poem. The ancient and cherished streets of Talas reflected traces of glorious history, while the gratitude for today’s free and prosperous life shone clearly in the eyes and faces of its people.
The serene streets, the call to prayer echoing five times a day, and the sincere smiles of the people brought peace to my heart. Poets and writers from 14 countries shared the stage, speaking with one spirit and in the language of the heart. Songs performed in different languages echoed love across all hearts.
The festival embodied unity, the meeting of hearts, and harmony of souls. Songs united nations, peoples, and hearts, praising love, literature, and the great Turkic spirit, carrying the heartbeat of history, roots, love, and friendship.
One of the most impressive moments was the humility and profound love for literature of Talas’ mayor, Mustafa Yalçın, who stayed with us from the beginning to the end of the event. His words carried sincerity, his gaze reflected humanity, and his every action embodied kindness. We admired and hoped, “If only our leaders were as compassionate and literature-loving as him.” Indeed, Mayor Mustafa proved to be an ideal leader and a true friend of literature at heart.
The dedication, hospitality, and sincerity of the festival organizers transformed the entire event into a living poem — each of their actions and glances touched hearts and enriched the spirit. At this festival, I rediscovered my identity, dreams, and inspiration. I realized that literature is not merely a collection of words but a bridge between hearts.
Talas taught me that sometimes, to find oneself, one must enter the world of other hearts. In this world, one discovers not only oneself but also the purest virtues of humanity. Despite different languages and cultures, there was one unifying language for all of us — love, sincerity, and devotion to literature.
This experience amazed me and filled my heart with inspiration. Kayseri brought new colors and emotions to my soul. I lost track of time there, immersed in a poetic world, and the lights in my heart shone brighter. I also realized that humanity, humility, and dedication leave a stronger impact than any literary work.
Although I have returned to Uzbekistan, a part of my soul still resides in Kayseri — in the sincere eyes of the people, the wind, mountains, and sky. Kayseri revealed to me the poetic essence of life, the depth of humanity, and the power of friendship.
At the conclusion of the festival, all participants were awarded certificates and commemorative gifts. Being honored with an award bearing the symbol of Talas city left an everlasting mark on our hearts.
Jakhongir NOMOZOV,
is a young poet and journalist from Uzbekistan.
He is also a Member of the Union of Journalists of Azerbaijan and the World Young Turkic Writers Union.
Participant of the Talas Festival of Turk World Writers and Poets.
