‘Everest of Russian literature’: Timur Zulfikarov turns 90
Russian-Tajik poet, novelist and playwright Timur Zulfikarov turned 90 on August 17. Speaking to Asia-Plus ahead of his anniversary, the Dushanbe-born writer reflected on his literary career, new books, his relationship with readers and his life in the mountains of Varzob.
Zulfikarov, known for works drawing on both Russian and Central Asian literary traditions, says he no longer formally celebrates his birthdays. Still, he expects friends and acquaintances to visit him at his summer retreat in Zimchuroud.
«In recent years I haven’t celebrated birthdays,» he said. «But last year there was an improvisation: the rais (head) of Varzob arranged a festive dinner for me here, and friends and acquaintances came to congratulate me.»
The writer said he had been told that Russian President Vladimir Putin might congratulate him on his 90th birthday.
Zulfikarov remains characteristically confident about his place in literature. Recalling praise from one of his admirers, he repeated a phrase that has become closely associated with him: «Everest cannot have delusions of grandeur.»
Khoja Nasrudin as philosopher and prophet
A central figure in Zulfikarov’s work is Khoja Nasrudin, the legendary folk character known across a vast region stretching from the Middle East and Central Asia to China.
Traditionally portrayed as a witty trickster, Nasrudin takes on a very different role in Zulfikarov’s writing.
«I created Nasrudin the sage, the politician, a profound philosopher and prophet,» he said.
In Zulfikarov’s works, Nasrudin becomes a timeless observer who encounters figures ranging from King Solomon and Buddha to Genghis Khan and Stalin, while also addressing contemporary political and business leaders.
The writer said that ordinary Tajiks sometimes come to him for advice or blessings after reading his Nasrudin parables.
Zulfikarov, known for works drawing on both Russian and Central Asian literary traditions, says he no longer formally celebrates his birthdays. Still, he expects friends and acquaintances to visit him at his summer retreat in Zimchuroud.
«In recent years I haven’t celebrated birthdays,» he said. «But last year there was an improvisation: the rais (head) of Varzob arranged a festive dinner for me here, and friends and acquaintances came to congratulate me.»
The writer said he had been told that Russian President Vladimir Putin might congratulate him on his 90th birthday.
Zulfikarov remains characteristically confident about his place in literature. Recalling praise from one of his admirers, he repeated a phrase that has become closely associated with him: «Everest cannot have delusions of grandeur.»
Khoja Nasrudin as philosopher and prophet
A central figure in Zulfikarov’s work is Khoja Nasrudin, the legendary folk character known across a vast region stretching from the Middle East and Central Asia to China.
Traditionally portrayed as a witty trickster, Nasrudin takes on a very different role in Zulfikarov’s writing.
«I created Nasrudin the sage, the politician, a profound philosopher and prophet,» he said.
In Zulfikarov’s works, Nasrudin becomes a timeless observer who encounters figures ranging from King Solomon and Buddha to Genghis Khan and Stalin, while also addressing contemporary political and business leaders.
The writer said that ordinary Tajiks sometimes come to him for advice or blessings after reading his Nasrudin parables.
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