The Best of My Country — Uzbekistan | Aziza Xasanova

ORIGINAL CONTRIBUTION · UZBEKISTAN

The Best of My Country

Uzbekistan is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It has 12 regions and 1 autonomous republic. Among its national dishes, plov (pilaf) is the most famous and is known worldwide. The air is clean. Almost all kinds of fruits and vegetables in the world can be found there. The national fabrics are atlas and adras.

Uzbekistan has played a great and important role in the history of Eastern civilization. The Great Silk Road passed through the territory of Samarkand, which made it even more famous. Today, all sectors in our country are widely developed. Our mother tongue is the Uzbek language. The people are hospitable and tolerant. In every season, we celebrate special holidays. For example, in autumn we celebrate the Harvest Festival, known as Mehrijon. In spring, Navruz is celebrated with festivals and public celebrations.

Aziza Xasanova · Uzbekistan

CULTURAL REFLECTION

What We Carry Across Cultures

Reflection by Nelly Vee

Aziza Xasanova’s description of Uzbekistan introduced me to another culture through the things its people celebrate, wear, prepare, and remember. What caught my attention was how naturally she moved between the history of the Silk Road and the everyday customs that still shape life in her country.

Growing up with Caribbean cultural influences, I understand the importance of food, festivals, and hospitality. These traditions are not identical to those of Uzbekistan, and I would not want to treat them as if they were. Yet Aziza’s words invite me to think about the different ways communities express belonging.

Her mention of atlas and adras fabrics made me consider how clothing and design can carry cultural identity. Her description of plov reminded me that a shared meal can be more than food. And the celebrations of Navruz and Mehrijon made me curious about how people mark seasons, renewal, and gratitude in different parts of the world.

There is something valuable about learning from a person who is proud to introduce her country in her own words. I do not need to pretend I know Uzbekistan firsthand. I can begin by listening, asking questions, and recognizing the care with which Aziza speaks about home.

For me, that is the purpose of this international exchange: not to erase cultural differences, but to understand them better while recognizing the humanity we share.

About the Contributor

Aziza Xasanova is a contributor from Uzbekistan to KVI Network’s international literary collection. In The Best of My Country, she introduces readers to her country’s cultural traditions, history, cuisine, and celebrations. Her contributor portrait appears above.

Source and Related Reading

Aziza Xasanova, “The Best of My Country,” original contribution in submission to K.docx, submitted to KVI Network Creations, 2026.