Shusha: Preparations have begun for the next Khari Bulbul International Music Festival to be held in Shusha on May 14-15, APA reports. The festival, now in its 9th edition, is organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture and promises an engaging program featuring performances by artists from multiple countries.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the festival aims to foster cultural dialogue and encourage creative exchange among musicians. The event will host Azerbaijani performers alongside artists from the United States, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Japan, and other nations. The festival is set to commence with a concert at Jidir Duzu on May 14 and will extend across various venues in Shusha over the two days.

The Khari Bulbul Music Festival, named after the symbolic flower of Shusha, has been a cultural mainstay since its inception in 1989. It was first celebrated in connection with the 100th anniversary of Seyid Shushinski, a renowned khananda, educator, and People's Artist. Initially held in Aghdam district, the festival has grown to international prominence since 1990.

During the Karabakh conflict, Aghdam hosted the main concerts with additional events in Barda and Aghjabadi. Following the Patriotic War and the liberation of occupied territories, the festival returned to Shusha, with some concerts also taking place in Lachin. This event is significant for its role in preserving Azerbaijan's cultural heritage and enhancing intercultural dialogue.