#Uzbekistan #Tashkent #Islamic Civilization #Ben Kingsley

Sir Ben Kingsley Becomes the Voice of the Center for Islamic Civilization

Oscar-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley has embarked on a remarkable new journey by becoming the host and narrator for ten short documentaries tied to Uzbekistan's recently inaugurated Center for Islamic Civilization. Located in the heart of Tashkent, this center is a significant cultural initiative that aims to illuminate the rich heritage and contributions of Islamic civilization, particularly those stemming from the extraordinary figures in Uzbekistan's past.

The Center for Islamic Civilization was established following the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who has expressed a deep commitment to promoting the nation's cultural and historical wealth. During a recent tour, he emphasized the center's role as more than just a museum, stating, "We have built a majestic center, the depth and importance of which cannot be overestimated." With a combination of modern technology and historical scholarship, the center aims to create an engaging environment that celebrates Uzbekistan's legacy.

In the film series titled 'Whisper of Wisdom,' Sir Ben highlights Uzbekistan as the birthplace of great thinkers and innovators, referring to it as "the homeland of great minds." The series showcases the achievements of renowned historical figures such as Mirzo Ulugbek, Al-Khwarizmi, Amir Timur, Avicenna, and Alisher Navoi—who all made profound contributions across various fields like science, philosophy, and literature. In his narration, Kingsley articulately conveys the notion that this land nurtured intellectual might that influenced civilizations far beyond its borders.

“This is a unique place where the heritage of great scientists of the past is studied and preserved,” Kingsley remarked, noting the ongoing significance of Islamic civilization in today's world. By merging the historical importance of these figures with a contemporary multimedia approach, the documentaries are tailored to resonate with a diverse audience, particularly the youth.

Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center for Islamic Civilization, echoed Kingsley’s sentiments, elaborating that the center is a cultural and educational platform designed for global dialogue about spiritual values. "The main idea is to convey to the world the true humanistic essence of Islam as a religion of peace, goodness, and enlightenment," he said. The architectural design of the center reflects Uzbekistan's rich heritage, further enhancing its mission to present the nation’s cultural narrative effectively.

Kingsley's illustrious career, highlighted by his Academy Award-winning role as Mahatma Gandhi in 'Gandhi' and his parts in other films touching upon Eastern culture, makes him a fitting choice for this project. The documentaries, set to be released on international platforms such as Euronews, CNN, and BBC World, are poised to reach viewers globally, offering insights into the remarkable contributions of Central Asia to world civilization.

Additionally, the Center for Islamic Civilization is preparing for its grand opening, slated for March 2026. This ambitious project, which has garnered international recognition, is strategically located near the historical ensemble of Hazrati Imam. Central to its exhibit will be the Mushaf of Uthman, one of the oldest copies of the Quran, included in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. The center’s innovative display of artifacts—spanning manuscripts, scientific instruments, and exquisite works of art—will shed light on the intellectual advancements made during the Golden Age of Islam.

Expectations are high as the center aims to foster interaction among scholars, students, cultural figures, and other interested parties from around the world, providing an environment that is conducive to discussion and inquiry. Experts who have toured the construction site have hailed the initiative as a groundbreaking approach that blends tradition with modern techniques, with some even calling it the 'eighth wonder of the world.' This new hub for education and cultural exchange promises to elevate the profile of Uzbekistan on the world stage while inspiring future generations.

As Sir Ben Kingsley lends his voice to this visionary project, it becomes evident that the Center for Islamic Civilization is not just a place to learn about the past; it is a beacon for the future, championing values of peace, wisdom, and enlightenment across cultures. With its focus on the scholarly traditions of Islam and the shared heritage of humanity, the center may very well position itself as a pivotal institution in the education and understanding of Islamic culture in the modern era.