A special issue of OCA Magazine dedicated to Jizzakh has been published in London, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and cultural significance.
The first issue of OCA Magazine: Jizzakh features articles by writers from around the world, including Uzbekistan, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, India, Bulgaria and Finland. The magazine explores Jizzakh’s heritage, history, economy, culture and cuisine.
Despite its strategic importance in Uzbekistan, Jizzakh remains relatively unknown internationally. It’s the birthplace of two of Uzbekistan’s leaders, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Sharaf Rashidov, as well as many other notable figures who have contributed to the region’s development. As Uzbekistan experiences rapid growth, the magazine aims to shed light on one of the country’s most promising regions.
The cover of the issue features Maria Shevel (Akhmedjanova), who has played a pivotal role in defining Jizzakh’s architectural landscape, particularly through her work on the renowned sanatorium in the Zaamin National Reserve.
The magazine also explores Jizzakh’s heritage, including the history of the Hungry Steppe, a region that was significantly developed by Sharaf Rashidov. His contributions extended beyond industry and development to literature and the arts, notably his ‘Kashmir Song’, reviewed by Shishir Raj, Advocate, Supreme Court of India.
The special issue of OCA Magazine: Jizzakh includes articles by Akhror Burkhanov, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, on the economic potential of the region, and Oxford graduate Nick Rowan on the construction of a nuclear power plant, one of the most controversial issues. British academic Dr Siddharth Saxena highlights Uzbekistan’s long-standing commitment to nuclear science and energy technology, while Alexander Kozlov, Deputy Director of the General Scientific and Practical Centre for Materials Science of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, emphasises the crucial role of nuclear energy in sustainable economic growth.
Jizzakh serves as a valuable platform to introduce the world to the region’s unique blend of history, culture and development potential, highlighting its role as a ‘hidden jewel’ waiting to be discovered. The special issue of OCA Magazine offers an unprecedented glimpse into this hidden gem, inviting the world to discover the vibrant spirit and boundless potential of Jizzakh.
The official launch of the Jizzakh issue of OCA Magazine will take place in Jizzakh on 20 September as part of the international conference ‘The Literary Heritage of Sharaf Rashidov in the Context of the ‘New Uzbekistan’ Strategy’. The UK launch will take place as part of the OCA Dialogue Forum on 28-30 November in London and Greenock.
