On July 15 th, over 90 community members–activists, writers, scholars, readers, and “Women’s World” club members– gathered at the Grand Ballroom of the Bukharian Jewish Community Center of New York for a literary celebration that honored both scholarship and cultural preservation.
The evening’s highlight was the recognition of Dr. Robert Pinkhasov, founder of the «Roshnoi» Scholars Club, who received a Certificate of Appreciation from New York State Assembly Member David Weprin. The award was presented by representative Anthony Lema, with community leader Svetlana Khanimova Levitin serving as translator.
The certificate specifically highlighted that since his immigration to the USA in 1992, Dr. Pinkhasov has distinguished himself not only as an outstanding urologist but also as an educator, public figure, philanthropist, and inspirer of numerous cultural initiatives. He founded the «Roshnoi» Scholars Club, which for over three decades has united Bukharian Jewish intellectuals and supported scientific, educational, and literary projects.
Three significant books were presented during the event: Rena Elizarova’s «The Saga of the Elizarovs Across Generations, » Sion Akilov’s «Mishka-Natsmen, » and Dr. Pinkhasov’s own work, «From the Depths of Memory.» The presentations included reviews from scholars and community members who praised the historical and literary value of these works.
A special artistic moment came when artist Yakov Kandinov presented a portrait of Aron Aronov, which was displayed alongside another work by Arkady Aminov, adding visual artistry to the literary celebration.
Notable community leaders in attendance included Chagit Leviev Sofiev, newly appointed President of the Congress of Bukharian Jews of the USA and Canada; Boris Matatov, recently elected President of the BJCC; Boris Kandov, former President of the Congress of Bukharian Jewish of the USA and Canada; Rafael Nektalov, Editor-in-Chief of the Bukharian Times; Veliyam Kandinov, Editor of the Russian section Bukharian Jewish Link; Aron Aronov, Director of Bukharian Jewish Museum; Svetlana Levitin, Head of “World of Women Immigrants”; honored artist Tamara Katayeva; and violinist Eduard Gulkarov.
The event drew guests from Israel, Canada, New Jersey, and other U.S. states, demonstrating the far-reaching connections of the Bukharian Jewish community.
Erin Levi
Photos by Ilya Elizarov, Kaykov Media