Shashmaqam Forever: A Celebration of Bukharian Heritage and Culture
A one-of-a-kind cultural event at Carnegie Hall
Previously showcased at Carnegie Hall, Shashmaqam Forever is a one-of-a-kind cultural event that brings together the Bukharian Jewish community, Uzbek Americans, and their historic homeland through the timeless art of Shashmaqam music. Founded by Bukharian Times Editor-in-Chief and composer Rafael Nektalov, alongside philanthropist David Mavashev, director of the Itzhak Mavashev Foundation – Institute of Bukharian Jewish Heritage in Diaspora, this event serves as a vibrant bridge between generations, cultures, and traditions.
Shashmaqam Forever is a tribute to the rich musical and artistic legacy of Bukharian Jews, celebrating their contributions to world heritage while fostering unity and cultural pride. As Nektalov describes it, "This event is like no other—a true celebration of history, identity, and the enduring power of music."
"Join us for an unforgettable experience that honors the past, enriches the present, and inspires the future. Everyone is welcome to attend."
The 25th World Congress of Bukharian Jews
«Development of Science and Culture of Bukharian Jews in the Diaspora»
David Mavashev, a prominent philanthropist and businessman in the Bukharian Jewish community in the USA, was among the honorees. He is the president of the Itzhak Mavashev Foundation—an institute dedicated to studying the heritage of Bukharian Jews in the diaspora. The institute was established in 1985 in honor of Itzhak Mavashev, a renowned writer, linguist, philosopher, and journalist who was the editor-in-chief of Ha-Thiya, the first Bukharian Jewish newspaper in Israel, and the author of Folklore and Memories.
David Mavashev actively supports Jewish education, serves as a member of the Bukharian Jewish Congress of the USA and Canada, and was a delegate at both the 24th and 25th World Congresses of Bukharian Jews. He is a major benefactor of the Jewish Institute of Queens and The Bukharian Times.
Together with the foundation's director, Rafael Nektalov, he has organized five international Shashmaqam Forever festivals in New York and Uzbekistan, as well as art exhibitions and book presentations in Moscow and New York. Every two years, the foundation awards prizes to outstanding figures in culture and organizes international conferences on the language and literature of Bukharian Jews.
Watch the Performance
A special performance showcasing the rich musical tradition of Shashmakom, a cornerstone of Bukharian Jewish cultural heritage.
Educational Philanthropy
Supporting Jewish education and cultural preservation
David Mavashev, president of the Itzhak Mavashev Foundation — an institute for studying the heritage of Bukharian Jews in the diaspora, which has been participating in JIQ's philanthropic activities for several years, was the first to be asked to take the stage. In 2023, he specially came to Dubai to support Lev Leviev's educational project. The award to Mavashev was presented by the editor-in-chief of The Bukharian Times, Rafael Nektalov.
«I am a descendant of the Sephardic rabbi Yosef Magribi, who made a great contribution to the creation of the yeshiva in Bukhara and the development of Jewish education in the community of the ancient city,» Nektalov reminded.
International Bukharian Jewish Congress in Dubai
A historic gathering of philanthropists, community leaders, and rabbis
David Mavashev with colleagues at the Dubai congress venue
Evening reception during the International Congress in Dubai
The International Bukharian Jewish Congress in Dubai marked a significant milestone in the global Bukharian Jewish community. This prestigious event brought together prominent philanthropists, community leaders, and rabbis from around the world to discuss cultural preservation, educational initiatives, and community development.
David Mavashev, representing the Itzhak Mavashev Foundation, played a key role in the congress, sharing insights on the foundation's work in preserving Bukharian Jewish heritage and supporting educational programs. The congress provided a valuable platform for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas among community leaders.
The choice of Dubai as the venue symbolizes the growing international recognition of Bukharian Jewish culture and the community's commitment to building bridges across different regions and traditions.