Baku: The Nizami Cinema Center recently hosted the premiere of the documentary film "Harmony," which focuses on Azerbaijan's longstanding traditions of tolerance and peaceful coexistence among its various religious communities.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the film's production is a joint effort by the Baku Media Center, the Foundation for the Promotion of Moral Values, and the State Committee of Azerbaijan for Work with Religious Organizations. Arzu Aliyeva, head of the Baku Media Center, was present at the event.

Following the documentary's screening, Ramin Mammadov, Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations, shared insights on the project. He highlighted that the film's screenplay reflects the Azerbaijani spirit through the narrative of three friends from different religious backgrounds. Mammadov emphasized the country's historical values of multiculturalism, mutual respect, and coexistence, which have been passed down through generations. He noted that these traditions remain vibrant today as diverse religious groups collaborate harmoniously, showcasing the nation's collective wisdom.

Mammadov further stated that under Heydar Aliyev's leadership, these multicultural values evolved from tradition to state policy. He also highlighted the ongoing initiatives by President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, particularly the extensive restoration of religious sites in areas recently freed from occupation.

Fuad Mammadzada, the executive producer and co-screenwriter of the film, explained that the documentary aims to depict Azerbaijan's inherent reality through the experiences of its main characters: Nigar, Jamila, and Sofia. Produced by the Baku Media Center, the film illustrates the environment of interfaith harmony and the strong potential for religious coexistence in Azerbaijan. Arzu Aliyeva served as the executive producer, with Orman Aliyev as producer, and Fuad Mammadzada as production director. The screenplay was co-authored by Fuad Mammadzada and Ramil Alakbarov, with Ziya Babayev as director of photography and Hafiz Ibrahimli as composer.

The filming process involved various religious sites across Azerbaijan and was conducted during the "Color of Difference" festival held in Baku on November 5. This festival aimed to promote and enhance Azerbaijan's exemplary environment of tolerance, multiculturalism, and interreligious harmony, while underscoring the nation's dedication to solidarity, cultural diversity, and shared values of coexistence.

Source: Azeri-Press news agency