House-Museum of Orif Gulkhani: A Tribute to a 19th-Century Uzbek Poet and Thinker

The House-Museum of Orif Gulkhani is a cultural landmark located in the historic city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Tajik and Uzbek poet and thinker Orif Gulkhani. Gulkhani lived in this house for most of his life, and it now stands as a testament to his contributions to the region’s rich literary heritage.

Biography of Orif Gulkhani

Orif Gulkhani was born in 1879 in Samarkand, into an educated family. He completed his studies at a local medrese and later pursued advanced religious and secular education in Bukhara. After returning to Samarkand, Gulkhani began working as a mudarris (teacher) at the Madrasai Nav. During this time, he developed a deep appreciation for the works of Alisher Navoi and Bedil, which inspired him to start writing poetry under the pen name “Gulkhani,” meaning “fiery” in Persian and Tajik.

While in Samarkand, Gulkhani formed relationships with prominent literary figures of the time, including Muqimi, Furqat, Vasli, Pisandi, and Sadriddin Ayni, who significantly influenced his creative journey. His vibrant literary activity inspired the emergence of other poets in the region, including Mirza Akrami Fikri, Tugral, and Abdulaziz Abdurassulov. Together, they organized literary gatherings for students, local poets, and enthusiasts, which soon became a tradition. These gatherings nurtured talents such as Said Nazar, Nazarmat, Utkir Rashid, Ra’no Uzokova, Vohid Abdullaev, and Dushan Faizi.

Gulkhani’s literary contributions were formally recognized in 1980, during the celebration of his 100th birth anniversary, initiated by the prominent Soviet statesman and poet Sharaf Rashidov, a follower of Gulkhani’s work.

House-Museum of Orif Gulkhani

Establishment and Preservation

Over several decades, manuscripts and artifacts associated with Orif Gulkhani were meticulously collected to establish a museum in his honor. In 1993, the House-Museum of Orif Gulkhani was inaugurated, and the street on which it is located was renamed after him. The museum underwent restoration and was placed under state protection to preserve its cultural and historical significance.

Layout and Features

The house-museum is a blend of history and culture. Upon entering, visitors can find the poet’s personal study, where he created many of his literary works. The museum has preserved the rooms where he lived and worked, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts, including:

• Manuscripts and Writings: The museum houses over 300 original manuscripts, 145 literary works, and essays by Gulkhani, offering insight into his creative mind.
• Historical Artifacts: The collection features more than 2,500 artifacts, such as household items from the late 19th century, handwritten books, photographs, and personal belongings.
• Literary Treasures: Visitors can explore a wide range of books, including historical texts, religious manuscripts, and poetry collections. Notable items include:
  • Journals like “Oyna” (1914 edition).
  • Works by poets such as Furqat, Muqimi, Umarkhon, and Zavqi.
  • Rare books like Bartold’s “On Irrigation of Turkestan Lands”.
  • Collections of Persian and Tajik classics, including Hafiz and Bedil.
  • Other unique publications like “Alifbe” and a dream interpretation book in Arabic.

Memorable Artifacts

The museum showcases personal items belonging to Gulkhani and his family, including:

• A beshik (traditional cradle) used by his children and grandchildren.
• A rare aluminum lectern, traditional ceramic jugs, and antique tableware from the 19th century.
• A chilim (hookah) and the poet’s clothing, offering a glimpse into his daily life.

The Garden

The museum is surrounded by a lush garden, planted by Gulkhani himself. It features fruit trees such as apple and peach, as well as vibrant flowers, creating a serene environment where visitors can connect with the poet’s legacy.

Cultural and Literary Significance

The House-Museum of Orif Gulkhani is not merely a historical site; it is a cultural center that celebrates the enduring legacy of one of the region’s most influential literary figures. The museum regularly hosts literary events, readings, and creative gatherings, bringing together poets, writers, and cultural enthusiasts to honor Gulkhani’s contributions to Uzbek and Tajik literature.

By preserving and showcasing Gulkhani’s life and works, the museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, inspiring future generations to appreciate and contribute to the region’s literary heritage. It stands as a testament to the power of art and literature to transcend time and connect people across cultures.