Muqimiy's Naziras and Takhmises of Navoiy's Ghazals

Abstract

The Kokand literary environment of the 19th century was rich with poetic traditions that emphasized imitation and creative engagement with classical predecessors, particularly Alisher Navoi. Among its prominent figures was Muhammad Aminxo‘ja Muqimiy, whose literary activity included composing naziras and takhmises to Navoi’s ghazals. These works reflected Muqimiy’s deep admiration for Navoi and his stylistic emulation of the great poet’s form and imagery. Despite recognition of Muqimiy’s contributions, scholarly attention to the scope and specificity of his intertextual engagement with Navoi’s poetry, particularly lesser-known muhammas and unpublished ghazals, has remained limited. This article aims to systematically examine Muqimiy’s literary responses to Navoi by identifying the ghazals he adapted and analyzing the stylistic, thematic, and structural elements in these adaptations. The study finds that Muqimiy composed takhmises for at least seven of Navoi’s ghazals, preserving rhyme and meter while introducing original lines rich with social commentary and poetic mastery. Furthermore, Muqimiy’s satirical verses demonstrate a continuation of Navoi’s critical voice, targeting societal hypocrisy and injustice. The article reveals the presence of previously unrecorded ghazals and muhammases in manuscript collections, offering new material for literary scholarship. The findings highlight the enduring influence of Navoi’s poetics on later Uzbek literature and establish Muqimiy’s role not merely as an imitator, but as a creative force who extended classical traditions into his socio-literary context with artistic and critical sophistication.