President Ilham Aliyev Pays Tribute to People’s Poet Nariman Hasanzada Following His Passing

Baku, The Gulf Observer: President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of renowned Azerbaijani poet, playwright, and public figure Nariman Hasanzada, describing his death as a significant loss for the nation’s cultural and literary community.

In a message shared on his official social media accounts, President Aliyev said the Azerbaijani cultural sphere had suffered a “heavy loss” with the death of People’s Poet Nariman Alimammad oglu Hasanzada, who passed away on August 1, 2026, at the age of 96.

The President paid tribute to Hasanzada as one of the most distinguished figures of modern Azerbaijani literature, noting that he was a recipient of the prestigious Heydar Aliyev Prize, the President’s personal pension, and numerous state honors, including the titles of Honored Artist and People’s Poet.

Born on February 2, 1931, in the village of Poylu in Azerbaijan’s Gazakh district, Nariman Hasanzada pursued higher education in language, literature, and creative writing, graduating from the Hasan bey Zardabi Ganja State Pedagogical Institute before continuing his studies at the Maxim Gorky Literary Institute in Moscow. He later completed postgraduate studies at Baku State University, earning the Candidate of Sciences degree.

Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than six decades, Hasanzada made remarkable contributions to Azerbaijan’s literary and cultural life. He held editorial positions at the Azerbaijani Youth newspaper, Azerbaijan magazine, and the Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Committee before serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Literature and Art newspaper from 1978 to 1991, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening the publication’s influence on the country’s literary landscape.

Between 1991 and 2001, Hasanzada served as First Deputy Minister of Press and Information of Azerbaijan and also fulfilled the responsibilities of Acting Minister. From 2001 until his passing, he chaired the Department of Humanities at the National Aviation Academy, contributing significantly to academic and cultural development.

President Aliyev praised Hasanzada’s enduring literary legacy, describing him as a master poet whose works enriched Azerbaijani literature through their distinctive artistic style, deep patriotism, and commitment to national identity. His poetry and verse plays explored themes of love for the homeland, freedom, moral values, and spiritual enlightenment while bringing historical figures and defining moments of Azerbaijan’s past vividly to life.

Many of Hasanzada’s poems were adapted into popular songs, while his dramatic works enjoyed widespread acclaim on theater stages across the country. His writings, known for their sincerity, emotional depth, and eloquence, continue to occupy a cherished place in Azerbaijani literature.

Beyond his literary achievements, the President highlighted Hasanzada’s service as a scholar, educator, and public figure. He remained actively involved in Azerbaijan’s cultural and political life, serving in leadership positions within literary institutions and representing the public as a deputy in various legislative bodies.

Recognizing his lifelong contributions to the advancement of Azerbaijani literature and culture, the independent Republic of Azerbaijan honored Hasanzada with its highest state decorations, including the Shohrat Order (2001), Sharaf Order (2011), Istiglal Order (2021), and the prestigious Heydar Aliyev Order in 2026.

Concluding his tribute, President Aliyev said the memory of Nariman Hasanzada—an exceptional poet, playwright, intellectual, and humble public servant—would forever remain in the hearts of the Azerbaijani people.

“May Allah rest his soul in peace,” the President said.