Qashqadaryo — The Land of the Timurids
For every soul, the place of their birth holds an irreplaceable meaning.
For me, that place — Qashqadaryo — is not just my homeland, but the very source of my greatest happiness and pride.
No matter how many poems I compose or novels I write, I doubt I could ever truly capture the fragrance, the spirit, or the magic woven into a handful of Qashqadaryo’s soil. As a child, I sometimes dreamed of being born in the capital. I would wonder, «If I had been born in Tashkent, would I have had more opportunities?» Today, I smile at those innocent thoughts, for I now realize that my greatest fortune was being born in Qashqadaryo — the cradle of history, the land of timeless traditions. Even now, as I pursue my studies in the capital, a tender longing forever lives in my heart — a longing for my homeland, for the sweet memories of my childhood, for the scent of Qashqadaryo’s air, for the songs of its birds.
Whether I step outside or turn the pages of a book, this yearning quietly embraces me. Over the years, I have made friends across the world — in Iran, the USA, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and beyond. During our conversations, I often see admiration in their eyes. A friend from Washington State once told me: «You were born in a land worthy of pride. Every region of Uzbekistan is unique, but Qashqadaryo — the land of the Timurids — stands apart. And to be from Yakkabog‘ is a rare honor, for you share your homeland with the great Amir Temur himself.» Those words stirred a profound pride within me — a feeling I shall carry forever. Indeed, Qashqadaryo is a land like no other. Its air, its soil, the melodies of its birds — all are imbued with a unique spirit. Its people are hardworking, generous, open-hearted, and kind.
When misfortune befalls one, the entire village gathers to help. Our celebrations are truly special, especially during Navruz, our cherished spring festival, when young and old alike come together in joy. We simmer sumalak, organize traditional games, and send our brightest wishes soaring into the future. Among Qashqadaryo’s many treasures is our beloved national game — Kupkari. Here, young men display their courage and skill, galloping across the field as if racing toward their beloved. This sacred land has not only left its mark on history but also shines in the world of literature. The great poet Abdulla Oripov was born here, nurtured by the spirit of Qashqadaryo. Many other remarkable individuals who have served our nation with honor have also risen from this blessed soil. And so, with pride swelling in my chest, I say:
«I am proud to have been born in Qashqadaryo!»
Dilobar Maxmarejabova is a first-year student English, Philology and Language Teaching faculty of Uzbekistan’s Journalism and Mass Communications University.