Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The culture and art of Uzbekistan have suffered a heavy loss. On 4 September, at the age of 77, an outstanding representative of the national song art, mentor of many masters of culture, People's Artist of Uzbekistan Sherali Juraev passed away.

Sherali Juraev was born on 12 April 1947 in the city of Asaka, Andijan region. In 1971 he graduated from the Tashkent State Theater and Art Institute (now the State Institute of Arts and Culture of Uzbekistan). He began his career as a soloist of the Shodlik Song and Dance Ensemble. For many years he faithfully served his people, working in such creative organizations as the Andijan Regional Philharmonic, the State Philharmonic of Uzbekistan, and the state institution "Uzbekconcert".

Sherali Juraev won great respect of the people with his unique talent, inimitable voice and high performance skills, creating hundreds of bright songs. He made an invaluable contribution to the enrichment of the "golden fund" of the Uzbek song art, writing melodies for many poetic works of classical and modern literature.

Sherali Juraev, with his many years of fruitful work, showed an example of selfless service to the cause of the development of modern national art and culture, increasing their fame outside our country. He also actively participated in public life. Worthy of admiration is his selfless deputy activity in the national parliament in the name of strengthening the spiritual foundations of our independence, educating the younger generation in the spirit of love and devotion to the Motherland, respect for national and universal values.

In recent years, he has effectively worked as chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Vatandoshlar Public Foundation, making a great contribution to strengthening ties with compatriots living abroad.

The skillful performer brought up many young talents, creating his own creative school in the Uzbek national song art.

The merits of Sherali Juraev in the development of national art and culture are duly appreciated by the state. He was awarded the high titles of the Honored Artist of the Republic of Uzbekistan, People's Artist of Uzbekistan, honorary titles, the State Prize of the Republic of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi, the orders "Fidokorona Khizmatlari Uchun" and "El-Yurt Khurmati".

The bright memory of the unique master of art, a modest and honest person, a caring and demanding youth mentor Sherali Juraev will forever remain in our hearts.

The leadership of Uzbekistan expressed their condolences on the death of Sherali Juraev.