Nektalov Explores Our Identity, Inspires Self-Reflection
By Avi Malaev
Vienna
Meeting an Outstanding Personality
On July 26, 2025, and again on July 27, 2026, I had the special honor of organizing two spontaneous lectures in Vienna with the world-renowned journalist and editor of the Bukharian Times, Mr. Rafael Nektalov. This encounter was not only a professional highlight for me but also a deeply enriching personal experience.
Mr. Nektalov is a prominent voice in the Bukharian Jewish community and has significantly contributed to preserving and passing on our cultural history through his journalistic work. His presence in Vienna provided an opportunity for an open dialogue with members of our community interested in learning and sharing.
The History of the Bukharian Jews – Diverse and Deeply Rooted
In his lectures, Mr. Nektalov impressively explained that although the Bukharian Jews originate from Uzbekistan, their history developed from a complex network of various ethnic groups and neighboring regions. The identity of this community is the result of centuries of cultural interweaving with influences from Yemen, Morocco, Israel, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Iran, Afghanistan, and other adjacent countries.
These new perspectives gave me a deeper understanding of our origins and the significance of our cultural roots.
The Jewish Community
in Samarkand –
A Historical Model
Particularly fascinating was the story of the Jewish community in Samarkand, where in the 19th century a thriving Jewish quarter was established within the existing city. This quarter became a model for the entire region.
The founder was the dedicated activist Josef Kalantarov, who succeeded in acquiring a piece of land—an exceptional achievement at that time. Samarkand was then part of the Emirate of Bukhara, ruled by the Uzbek Manghit dynasty, and the Emir of Bukhara had to approve the sale.
Mr. Kalantarov’s initiative laid the foundation for a vibrant Jewish community that shaped Samarkand for decades. Such official permission for land purchase by a Jewish community member was extraordinary at that time—almost unique from Gibraltar to the farthest coast of Asia.
Beyond Borders
An especially insightful part of the lectures addressed why we call ourselves “Bukharian Jews” even though many of us were not born in Bukhara itself. Mr. Nektalov emphasized that the term goes far beyond a geographical designation; it represents a transregional cultural identity that connects people from various parts of Central Asia.
This identity is based on a shared language, customs, religion, and values.
What Connects Us: Language, Culture, and Faith
Bukharian Jews are characterized by a common language—a unique dialect with elements from Farsi, Tajik, and Hebrew. Added to this are a rich and diverse cuisine, special holidays, a distinctive liturgy, and the characteristic singing in our synagogues.
All these expressions reflect a deeply rooted cultural and religious identity that remains alive today—across generations and continents.
Why Am I a Bukharian Jew?
Because I am part of a community whose identity is defined not by borders, but by a shared history, language, faith, and culture.
Although I was not born in Bukhara, I was born in Samarkand in 1967. In 1974, my family emigrated to Israel, and in 1980, we moved to Vienna, Austria.
I speak Russian, Bukhari, German, English, and Hebrew. I deeply cherish my heritage—and I still long to learn much more about the history and legacy of my people.
Even far from our ancestral homeland, I carry the centuries-old traditions of this proud community within me—in my prayers, in my language, in my family, and in my way of life.
To me, being Bukharian means preserving a living heritage and passing it on—with pride and a deep sense of responsibility—to the generations that follow.
The Future of Bukharian Culture
To keep Bukharian culture alive, both personal commitment and communal effort are essential. This especially includes the promotion of cultural life and the preservation of our language.
Only through dedicated engagement can we preserve and continue to develop our unique identity in the modern world.
The Importance of Bukharian Jewish Identity
The identity of Bukharian Jews—like that of other Mizrahi communities—is not merely a matter of origin. It is a living connection to history, tradition, faith, and collective memory. In times of globalization, assimilation, and cultural pressure, preserving our identity becomes an act of spiritual resilience and cultural resistance.
For Bukharian Jews, identity means our language (Bukharian-Tajik), our music, our cuisine, our prayers, and our customs—passed down through generations. It is our connection to Central Asia, to the ancient Jewish communities of Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, and other cities where Jews lived, prayed, created, and preserved a unique form of Judaism—shaped by Persian, Uzbek, and Jewish influences.
Why is this important today?
Today, as many young people lose touch with their roots, it is more important than ever to build a bridge between the past and the future. Bukharian identity can be a source of belonging, pride, and inner strength. Through language, Jewish education, family traditions, cultural centers, and active community life, we preserve ourselves and our heritage.
To be a Bukharian Mizrahi Jew means not only knowing who you are—but carrying that knowledge with dignity and responsibility. It is an invitation to dialogue—with other Jews and with the world—offering our unique voice, music, and experience to the broader tapestry of the Jewish people.