Djonrid Abdullahanov Uzbek prose writer, poet, playwright and journalist. Date of Birth: 03.03.1929 Country: Uzbekistan

1. Early Life and Ancestry
2. An Intriguing Name and Childhood
3. Wartime Ordeal and Entry into Journalism
4. Literary Recognition
5. Literary and Social Contributions
6. Artistic Accomplishments
7. Personal Life and Legacy

Early Life and Ancestry

Johnrid Abdullakhanov, an Uzbek literary luminary, emerged from a family of artistic distinction. His father, Mukhitdin Abdullakhanov, co-founded the Namangan Drama Theater. However, tragedy struck during World War II, as Mukhitdin vanished at Stalingrad in 1942. His fate remained unknown until 2008, when the Polish Red Cross revealed he had perished in a German POW camp in 1943. Abdullakhanov's mother, Shakhribanu, an educator, passed away in 1943.

An Intriguing Name and Childhood

Abdullakhanov's unusual name, Johnrid, ignited a debate between prominent Uzbek poets Elbek and Muhammadsharif Sufizoda. The former warned that the name could spell trouble, given Stalin's aversion to the American journalist John Reed. However, Sufizoda supported the choice, and young Abdullakhanov published his first poems at age 12 in Namangan newspapers.

Wartime Ordeal and Entry into Journalism

The loss of his parents at age 14 sent Abdullakhanov to Tashkent on foot. He worked as a radio announcer while attending the newly established Journalism Faculty at the Central Asian State University. He graduated in 1954, embarking on a long career in radio and television journalism.

Literary Recognition

Abdullakhanov's journalism garnered attention, particularly his 1960s article in "Trud" advocating for rational water use and predicting the potential depletion of the Aral Sea. This sparked controversy among Uzbek authorities. His novel "Barsa Kelmes" further explored the theme of the vanishing Aral Sea.

Literary and Social Contributions

Abdullakhanov served as director of the Uzbek branch of the USSR Literary Fund from 1976 to 1982. He became a member of the Union of Writers of the USSR in 1956 and the Union of Writers of Uzbekistan in 1991. His 1960 graduation from the Higher Literary Courses in Moscow under Konstantin Paustovsky further honed his writing skills.

Artistic Accomplishments

Abdullakhanov's screenplay for the first Soviet television film, "Azizaqon" (1964), showcases his versatility. He received accolades for his novel "Uragon" and the play "Olov Kalblar" ("Fiery Hearts").

Personal Life and Legacy

Abdullakhanov is happily married with two sons, as well as a granddaughter and three grandsons. He continues to reside in Tashkent, leaving an enduring legacy as an influential figure in Uzbek literature and journalism.