PRESERVING UZBEKISTAN'S INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH THE FERGANA VALLEY SCHOOLS OF ASKIYA: A SOCIO-PHILOSOPHICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study investigates the historical development and contemporary transformation of the Fergana Valley schools of askiya and qiziqchilik through socio-philosophical and cultural approaches. Particular attention is devoted to the regional traditions of Kokand, Margilan, Andijan, and Namangan, each of which has contributed distinctive stylistic, linguistic, and aesthetic characteristics to the evolution of Uzbek verbal art. The research argues that these regional schools function not merely as artistic communities but also as mechanisms for preserving cultural identity, strengthening social cohesion, and transmitting ethical values through the master–apprentice tradition.

The paper further examines the impact of globalization and digital technologies on the transformation of traditional performance practices. While digital media have significantly expanded opportunities for documenting, preserving, and disseminating askiya worldwide, they have simultaneously introduced challenges associated with commercialization, simplification of artistic expression, and the erosion of authentic performance practices. Drawing upon UNESCO's concept of intangible cultural heritage and contemporary theories of cultural identity and hybridization, the study demonstrates that the sustainability of askiya depends upon maintaining a dynamic balance between innovation and tradition.