Art & Culture
Bridging Cultures and Continents: Inside Umedjon Saidov’s DITE-2025 Triumph
Step into the vibrant world of global tourism with Umedjon Saidov, National Expert in Tourism Development and General Director of Somon Travel LLC, whose passion has unveiled Tajikistan’s hidden gems to the world. From his roots as a scholar of international relations to masterminding the Dushanbe International Tourism Exhibition (DITE-2025), held September 18–20, Saidov has transformed Tajikistan’s majestic Pamir peaks and lively Dushanbe markets into must-visit destinations of hospitality and heritage. In this exclusive The Light Newspaper interview, he invites you to explore the dreams, challenges, and triumphs that made DITE-2025 a global sensation, uniting 200 companies from 20 countries and sparking partnerships that promise adventure and opportunity.
“My love for Tajikistan drove me to connect its beauty with the world,” Saidov shares. His journey—from diplomatic posts and “Tourist Police” to founding travel companies—culminated in DITE-2025, a dazzling showcase born from relentless dedication. Having represented Tajikistan at global events like ITB Berlin and WTM London, he crafted DITE as a stage for airlines, artisans, and hoteliers to highlight Tajikistan’s untapped potential, inviting travelers and investors to discover its charm.
The challenge of uniting global hotel chains, local restaurants, and tour operators was no small feat, but Saidov’s collaborative approach turned diversity into strength. “We built trust through open dialogue, ensuring every voice was heard,” he says. This unity transformed DITE into a cultural and commercial triumph, where vibrant displays of music, crafts, and cuisine met investment forums and B2B sessions, sparking deals that elevate Tajikistan’s tourism.
A standout moment came when Saidov stepped in to moderate a critical panel after a last-minute cancellation, seamlessly connecting airlines and tourism boards with Tajikistan’s opportunities. His quick thinking turned a challenge into a highlight, showcasing his leadership and passion. “DITE-2025 was more than an event—it was a bridge to the world,” he reflects.
Looking ahead, Saidov envisions DITE as Central Asia’s premier tourism platform, with regional expansions and digital campaigns to keep Tajikistan in the spotlight year-round. His advice to aspiring professionals? “Combine passion with perseverance. Believe in your country’s potential, and doors will open.”
The magic of DITE-2025 lies in its mutual discoveries—international guests enchanted by Tajikistan’s hospitality and local businesses embracing their global potential. “This is just the beginning,” Saidov says. “Join us to explore Tajikistan’s wonders, from the Pamirs to Dushanbe’s vibrant markets. Let’s create unforgettable journeys together!”
Art & Culture
From Bank Lines to Bus Seats: Bold Lessons in Courtesy, Courage, and Everyday Survival
In the line of bill payers at the bank,
As the fairer sex,
If sick, don’t just be blank
“Ladies first”, “excuse me11, “before you please.”
For deals with unpaid bills,
Ask for goods back, threat if you will,
Repeat the request for a job.
You may make it from the mob,
Instead of standing, share the seat on the bus
Isn’t it much better than making a fuss,
Whatever you do during tug-of-war, do not push the rope
Or you’ll be the laughing stock amidst cries of, “What a dope.”
Paris(Imran Y. CHOUDHRY):- Bareendo (Bhorindo), one of the oldest surviving folk instruments of Sindh, has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in need of urgent safeguarding. The decision was adopted at the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Bareendo is a clay wind instrument whose origins trace back to the 5,000-year-old Indus Valley Civilization. It is a symbol of Sindh’s spiritual and communal traditions. For centuries, its soft and meditative tones have accompanied winter gatherings, Sufi practices, and rural celebrations. Today, however, the tradition is endangered, with only one master musician, Ustaad Faqeer Zulfiqar, and one master potter, Allah Jurio, preserving its complete knowledge.
The nomination of Bareendo as an ICH in urgent need of safeguarding is the result of an intensive consultative process between the Government of Sindh, Pakistan Mission’s to UNESCO in France and the UNESCO Headquarters. It was inspired by a community-led and participatory process in the village of Keti Mir Muhammad Loond village in Sindh province to protecting Bareendo as a cultural heritage. Their efforts shaped the comprehensive Four-Year Safeguarding Plan (2026–2029), which includes the establishment of a community music school, integration of Bareendo heritage into formal and informal education, and the use of digital platforms to expand cultural outreach. UNESCO’s inscription will support the conservation process.
Permanent Delegate of Pakistan to UNESCO Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch welcomed the decision of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee to inscribe Bareendo as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in urgent need of safeguarding. “The inscription of Bareendo is a proud moment for Pakistan and a tribute to the communities who have preserved this ancient instrument and music for generations. Bareendo is not only an emblem of the Indus Valley’s cultural continuity but also a living expression of Sindh’s artistic and spiritual heritage.”
“This recognition by UNESCO reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to the protection and promotion of our diverse cultural traditions. We look forward to working closely with UNESCO to ensure that the knowledge, craftsmanship, and musical identity of the Bareendo is transmitted to future generations”, she said.
Art & Culture
“The Backyard Ballet: Cat and Crow in Comic Courtship — A Poem by Zeenat Iqbal Hakimjee”
My backyard is livened up
By the cat and the crow.
From a distance they for each other
A liking show.
Caw Caw, Meow Meow they hark & howl.
A din enough, to disturb the neighbouring fowl
Both of them perched on the dustbin.
Turn by turn.
Waiting for a morsel, from the kitchen to return.
Up goes the left over meat, in the air,
What ensues would ashame ‘The battle for the chair
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