Premiere in Berlin: 18 Stories by Mir Jalal Published in German for the First Time
On the initiative and with the support of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany, the anthology “The Great Value of Humanity” has been published by H.J. Maurer Verlag. It contains 20 stories by the renowned Azerbaijani writer Mir Jalal Pashayev—18 of them available in German translation for the first time. The selection brings together central themes of his work: humanism, social responsibility, and the moral challenges of everyday life.
On 27 November 2025, the book was officially presented at the Azerbaijani Cultural Center in Berlin. Guests included members of the German Bundestag, diplomats, scholars, and representatives of the German cultural and literary scene. Particularly warmly welcomed were members of the author’s family, among them his son Prof. Hafiz Pashayev, Rector of ADA University, and his daughter Prof. Adiba Pashayeva.
The event began with a short film offering insight into Mir Jalal’s life and work.
Ambassador Aghayev: “Today we celebrate a voice of moral clarity and humanity”
In his speech, Ambassador Nasimi Aghayev emphasized the historic significance of presenting Mir Jalal’s stories in German for the first time.
He stated:
“Today we celebrate not just a book—we celebrate a voice that spoke with humor, irony, and moral courage. Humanity is not an ideal, but a daily attitude we owe to one another.”
Prof. Hafiz Pashayev: “Culture connects people—across languages and borders”
In his address, Prof. Hafiz Pashayev, the author’s son and Rector of ADA University, highlighted the significance of the German edition.
He stressed that the translation is an important contribution to cultural exchange between Germany and Azerbaijan:
“Today we witness how culture builds bridges—through literature, music, and the shared language of humanity.”
Academic perspective
Prof. Eva-Maria Auch (former head of the Azerbaijan Chair at Humboldt University) emphasized that Mir Jalal consistently places the human being at the center of his work—with their inner life, moral compass, and understanding of humanity. She noted that he examines human motives with subtle philosophical insight and regards values such as family, community, and memory as foundational pillars of human existence.
She also highlighted that, despite the repressive Soviet era, Mir Jalal portrayed individuals as autonomous and responsible personalities— a courageous counterpoint to the official concept of the “collective human.” His works therefore serve as important sources for understanding Azerbaijani history and the role of humanism in shaping national identity.
Dramatic reading and musical interpretation
A highlight of the evening was the staged presentation of selected stories, performed masterfully by Sarah Maria Sander, Tamer Tahan, and Elisabeth Degen.
Under the direction of Tural Ismayilov, the ensemble Anima Shirvani created an exceptional musical atmosphere by blending European Baroque instruments with Azerbaijani musical traditions. The performance was met with prolonged applause.
Video of the event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iYyfVmZz_I
