Discovery Recommends:Rafis Abazov is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Harriman Institute of Columbia University, New York. He is the author of three books and numerous research articles on economic and political development in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan.

Modern Central Asian culture represents the rich heritage of the glorious Persian and Turkic civilizations and the legacy of the mighty nomadic empires - from the Scythians to the Mongols. Its oriental bazaars still bear the cultural imprint of the great Silk Road that ran through the region for nearly for 2,000 years. Present-day handicrafts and the lifestyle of the last pastoral nomads of the Eurasian continent are intertwined with ancient customs and traditions that even now remain unspoiled by mass tourism and globalization. Famous presently for its huge oil and gas reserves and close proximity to hot spots in world politics. Central Asia has undergone rapid and fundamental changes, asserting its independence and its place in the international arena. Yet, Central Asian culture remains relatively unknown to the West. The Cultures and Customs of the Central Asian Republics provides a concise yet thorough overview of the region. The book is greatly enriched by Rafis Abazov's insider knowledge of dynamic changes in the post-independence era. Its complex cultural heritage is shown in its appalling extremes. Historically, the region was on par with the most vibrant and advanced civilizations of the Middle East, South Asia and China. Eventually it fell far behind due to internal turmoil and savage wars, and was ultimately colonized by the Russian Empire. Central Asia gave the world some of the most progressive and influential Muslim scholars and spiritual leaders, such as Avicenna, Al Farabi, Al Bukhari, Naqhshbandi and many others; yet, at the same time it harbored some of the most conservative views and customs. Its distinct architectural landscape coexists with tedious blocks of modern cheap architecture. Some metropolitan areas are rapidly moving towards developed countries conditions, where creative writers, actors, painters and composers find inspiration in indigenous artistic traditions and experiment with modern forms. In the meantime some rural areas are falling behind with living conditions comparable with those in the worst developing countries.
Coverage includes thoughts and religions, folklore, literature, media, cinema, performing and visual arts, gender and marriage, festival and social customs. Evocative photos, a map, a chronology, and a glossary compliment the text; and the selected bibliography (resource guide) provides a resource for curious readers to conduct further studies. This is the best source for students and general readers to gain extensive insight into the "jewel of Eurasia."

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