A Dialogue Between Nations
The Azerbaijani cultural program opened with remarks by Rashad Aghazada, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Sweden, who reflected on the enduring ties between Azerbaijan and Norway and the importance of cultural bridge building in today’s world.
Aghazada highlighted how the relations between the two nations extends far beyond modern diplomacy. He pointed to the legacy of the renowned Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl, whose visits to Azerbaijan sparked a lifelong fascination with the region’s ancient history and cultural heritage. Heyerdahl believed that understanding humanity requires us to look beyond borders and seek the connections that unite us. Whether through his studies of ancient migration routes or his deep interest in the Caucasus, his work was driven by a desire to bring cultures closer together rather than divide them. Aghazada also reflected on the role of literature, exploration, and cultural exchange in strengthening Azerbaijani–Norwegian relations.
Figures such as Thor Heyerdahl and Nobel Prize-winning author Knut Hamsun continue to serve as cultural reference points between our countries, reminding us that dialogue and curiosity are among the most powerful tools for building understanding. His remarks resonated strongly with the spirit of the Earth & East Festival itself. Inspired by the ancient Silk Road, the festival is built upon the belief that cultures flourish when they meet, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
Photo credit: © Arve Kern
Earth & East Festival in collaboration with:
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Echoes of the Silk Road
Echoes of the Silk Road
One of the most memorable aspects of the Earth & East Festival was the musical program presented by artists whose lives and work reflect the very essence of cultural exchange. Through melody and storytelling, they demonstrated how heritage can be preserved while simultaneously evolving for new generations.
Among the festival’s highlights were two concerts by Norwegian-Azerbaijani artist Marie Sahba and trio. Born and raised in Norway, Sahba carries with her a rich cultural legacy shaped by both Nordic and Azerbaijani traditions. Her family history stretches from Baku to the ancient city of Urmia, creating a personal narrative that echoes the broader story of migration, identity, and belonging.
With her distinctive blend of electronic soundscapes and Azerbaijani musical influences, Sahba performed selections from her acclaimed album A Billion Years Too Soon. The audience was particularly captivated by Azeri Baby, a deeply personal tribute to her late father and her Azerbaijani roots. As the familiar refrain filled the museum grounds, many audience members joined in, creating a joyful moment of connection that transcended language and nationality.
The celebration continued with two performances by renowned Norwegian-Azerbaijani composer Galib Hasan Oglu Mammadov. Presenting works including Rafoss, Nostalji, and La den brenne, Mammadov invited audiences into a musical universe where classical traditions meet contemporary expression. His performances were met with enthusiastic applause and served as a powerful reminder that cultural identity can be both deeply rooted and endlessly innovative. Together, these artists demonstrated that music remains one of humanity’s most universal languages, capable of carrying memory, heritage, and emotion across generations and borders.
Photo credit: © Arve Kern
Jirtdan in Oslo
Jirtdan in Oslo
While music filled the festival grounds, literature offered visitors another path into Azerbaijani culture.
One of the most heartwarming moments of the Azerbaijani cultural program was the presentation of Jirtdan in Oslo, the English-language edition of the beloved Azerbaijani folk tale adapted by Honored Artist Bahram Bagirzadeh.
For generations, Jirtdan has occupied a special place in the hearts of Azerbaijani children. Clever, courageous, and endlessly curious, the small hero has long served as a symbol of imagination and resilience. Through Jirtdan in Oslo, this treasured character embarks on a new journey, introducing young international readers to Azerbaijani storytelling traditions while discovering Norway through fresh eyes.
The book was presented through a reading by ten-year-old Ayla Aghazada, whose enthusiasm and confidence captivated the audience. Sharing selected passages and her own reflections on the story. Her reading was met with warm applause from the audience, many of whom were discovering Jirtdan for the very first time.
The moment perfectly reflected one of the festival’s central ideas: that culture is not only preserved in museums and archives, but lives on through stories, language, and the curiosity of children.
As visitors listened to Jirtdan’s adventures unfold in a Norwegian setting, they witnessed a beautiful example of how literature can build bridges between countries, cultures, and generations.
Photo credit: © Arve Kern
Project in collaboration with:
A Taste of Azerbaijan & Türkiye
A Taste of Azerbaijan & Türkiye
No cultural journey is complete without experiencing the flavors that shape a nation’s identity.
Throughout the festival, visitors were welcomed to the Azerbaijani cultural stand, where they could explore books, cultural materials, national symbols, and information introducing Azerbaijan’s rich history and traditions.
Guests also had the opportunity to discover Azerbaijan’s centuries-old winemaking heritage through selections from AzGranata, Meysari, and Chabiant, presented in Norway through NorAs Wine Import and its founder, Cecilie Hassing. As one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, Azerbaijan offered visitors not only a tasting experience but also a glimpse into a tradition deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture.
Adding a refreshing note to the day’s program, Naturella offered their delicious and nutrient-rich smoothies made from locally sourced fruits and vegetables. As a beloved Turkish brand committed to healthy living and natural ingredients, Naturella brought a vibrant and wholesome flavor to the festival experience.
Together, NorAs Vinimport and Naturella brought the essence of Azerbaijani and Turkish hospitality.
Photo credit: © Arve Kern
Project in collaboration with:
