Display at MNU Delves into Central Asia via Perspectives of Western Explorers
Rewritten Article:
From the streets of Astana, the first exhibition of the series "Central Asia Through Western Lenses" kicked off at Maqsut Narikbayev University on April 29, displaying the captivating works of Hungarian adventurer and orientalist, Armin Vambéry.
This exhibition dedicated to Ármin Vámbéry, one of the pioneers of global Turkology, unfolded under the joint collaboration of MNU and the Hungarian Embassy in Kazakhstan. The project aims to shed light on Central Asia's historical heritage through the lens of Western ethnographers, travelers, and scholars.
"This exhibition at Maqsut Narikbayev University is a testament to the evolution of Turkology as a scholarly discipline, taking roots in Hungary. Through his groundbreaking research, Vámbéry delved into the quest for the origins of the Hungarian tribes that settled in Central Europe. This trailblazer initiated debates that still resonate today, questioning the linguistic familial ties between the Hungarian and Turkic languages," said Hungarian Ambassador Otto Ivan Rona in his opening address.*
Vambéry's epic journey across Central Asia penned vivid narratives of daily life, beautifully illustrated with detailed sketches depicting landmarks such as the Khoja Ahmed Yassawi mausoleum in Turkistan.*
The showcase boasts a unique printed copy from the first edition of Vámbéry's "Journey through Central Asia" book, published in 1868, as well as a treasure trove of historic images portraying life in the region.*
Yerkin Tukumov, Director at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies, emphasized the influential role Western travelers and scholars like Marco Polo, Thomas Atkinson, and Vámbéry played in exposing the region to the world and fostering dialogue between East and West.*
"Vámbéry, disguised as a nomadic dervish, traversed the heartlands of Central Asia couragingously-not with the intention to exploit or dictate, but to connect. His journey was not merely an academic pursuit-it was a quest for identity, belonging, and deeper connections between people," said Tukumov.*
"He captured not only the geography but the very essence of our ancestors-their languages, stories, dreams, and more. Vámbéry's works serve as a reminder that the essence of discovery lies not in maps or treaties but in empathy, authenticity, and mutual respect. Vámbéry's legacy is a precious heritage that binds our shared human history together," he added.*
Olzhas Berkinbayev, Director of the Public Relations Department for the Kazakh Ministry of Science, lauded Vámbéry's contribution to the Central Asian region.*
Citing the works of renowned historian Babakumar Hinayat, Berkinbayev underscored Vámbéry's significance by saying, "Having no formal education, Vámbéry self-taught himself to become a beacon of knowledge. He laid the groundwork for the formation of the first Turkology department in the world, playing a pivotal role in the establishment of orientalism in Hungary. Furthermore, he advocated for the idea of Turanism, putting his linguistic skills in Persian, Turkish, and Chagatai to the test."*
With a passion to trace the Hungarian people's Turkic roots, Vámbéry embarked on his first journey to Istanbul at 20. His knowledge of Turkish paved the way to a position as secretary to the Ottoman foreign minister, during which he published linguistic works. In 1862, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences funded Vámbéry's expedition to the Middle East and Central Asia, a substantial undertaking for the time.*
As a dervish in disguise, Vambéry's deep understanding of Eastern languages and culture enabled him to traverse through Türkiye, Iran, and Central Asian cities like Khiva and Bukhara. Vambéry's works are ornamented with illustrations of bridges symbolizing trade, travel, and cultural exchange, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region.*
The outcome of this expedition was "Bukhara, or History of Maverannahr from Antiquity to the Present Day." In 1873, it was published in Russia in Pavlovsky's translation.*
"The book's value lies in the fact that Vambéry relied on established works of historians to analyze the material. He immersed himself in the works of scholars like Tabari, Neshri, Abu Bakr Nashshahi, and deeply studied the works of Hafizi Abru and Sharaf al-Din Ali Yazdi, " said Berkinbayev.*
"In this context, the scholarship of researchers at the level of Armin Vambéry is an important step towards the revival of historical consciousness. Personalities like Vámbéry offer us an opportunity to delve into our history from various perspectives, making it more objective and comprehensive," he added.*
By balancing scholarly precision with boldfield exploration, Vambéry established Turkology as a distinct discipline and revolutionized Western perspectives of Central Asia.
- The current exhibition at Maqsut Narikbayev University, under the collaboration of MNU and the Hungarian Embassy, is showcasing the works of Armin Vambéry, a pioneer of global Turkology.
- This educational event delves into the life and works of Armin Vambéry, highlighting his impact on the field of lifelong learning and self-development.
- As a prolific traveler and scholar, Armin Vambéry explored Central Asia in the 20th century, leaving behind vivid travelogues and detailed sketches of landmarks like the Khoja Ahmed Yassawi mausoleum in Turkistan.
- The series "Central Asia Through Western Lenses" is aimed at promoting cultural-travel and entertainment, offering insights into the region's historical heritage, lifestyle, and daily life as portrayed by Western ethnographers and orientalists.
- Armin Vambéry, disguised as a nomadic dervish, embarked on a courageous journey through the heart of Central Asia, seeking not domination or exploitation, but genuine connections and understanding.
- Books like "Journey through Central Asia," published in 1868, and "Bukhara, or History of Maverannahr from Antiquity to the Present Day," offer scholars and lifelong learners a valuable resource for studying the history, language, and culture of the region.
