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Opening of Shazda Bagh sparks objection over selection of Persian-language singer

2026.06.10, 11:47
Opening of Shazda Bagh sparks objection over selection of Persian-language singer

The decision by the Tabriz Municipality to hold the opening ceremony of the Shazda Bagh (Kolah-Farangi/old pavilion) building with a performance by Persian-language singer Salar Aghili has sparked widespread objection among Azerbaijanis.

Gunaz.tv

Critics have called for Azerbaijani singers to perform at the ceremony and have criticized the exclusion of local artists.

Writer and Azerbaijani cultural activist Gholamreza Razmi reacted to Aghili’s participation in a post on his personal account, criticizing the “overlooking of Azerbaijani artists.”

He wrote: “How many billions is the Tabriz Municipality spending on Salar Aghili and his team for the opening of Shazda Bagh? Does Tabriz not have its own singers? We have world-class artists in Azerbaijani music; why is this money being spent on capital-based artists instead of supporting our own city’s artists?”

The news agency “Azar Vatan” also reported on the issue, stating: “The reopening of the historic Shazda Bagh in Tabriz is an important event in the city’s historical and cultural memory. This building is a symbol of part of the history of Tabriz and Azerbaijan, and its restoration is a valuable step in preserving heritage.”

However, the agency noted that the invitation of Salar Aghili to the opening has caused dissatisfaction among part of the public. Critics believe that in a ceremony dedicated to a historical symbol of the Azerbaijani and Tabriz region, local Turkic artists should be given priority.

The report added that around the world, events related to historical and cultural heritage are usually held with an emphasis on local elements, which strengthens the cultural identity of the community.

Shazda Bagh was one of the most magnificent palaces of Tabriz, built during the Aq Qoyunlu period. It hosted royal weddings during the Safavid era and was expanded under Abbas Mirza during the Qajar period.

During the Pahlavi era, amid the destruction of many Turkic historical monuments, Shazda Bagh was also demolished in 1929 by Reza Shah. Nearly 100 years later, the historic site has been restored by the Tabriz Municipality, with its reopening scheduled for Friday, June 12.

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