Baku, October 16, AZERTAC

Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) has hosted a ceremony to celebrate the 70th anniversary of a legendary Azerbaijani cinema and theatrical actor, People’s Artist of the Azerbaijan Republic, holder of “Sharaf” and “Shohrat” Orders and Presidential Stipend Rasim Balayev. The event was also dedicated to the 45th anniversary of the release of Nasimi, a biopic film shot in 1973. The event brought together BHOS Rector Elmar Gasimov, the People’s Artist Rasim Balayev, MP Aydin Mirzazada, Director of the film studio "Azerbaijanfilm" named after Jafar Jabbarli Mushfig Gatamov, prominent national artists, and the Higher School’s teaching staff and students.

In his opening remarks, BHOS Rector Elmar Gasimov extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rasim Balayev on his 70th anniversary on behalf of all the staff members. In his words, “although it was a debut of the young artist in a big movie, Rasim Balayev who was playing the leading role in Nasimi became a notable actor after the film’s release.” In 1974, during 7th Soviet film festival in Baku, the film was awarded Prime Award for Best Historical Film and Rasim Balayev received Best Actor award.

The famous actor expressed his gratitude to the BHOS Rector for the interest and attention to his work. Rasim Balayev said that this was his second visit to the Higher School and added that it will always have a special place in his heart. The People’s Artist highlighted his filmography and professional activities and shared memories on the most interesting moments of his biography.

Elmar Gasimov presented Rasim Balayev a memorable plaque on his 70th anniversary and in recognition of his outstanding achievements. At the event, segments of movies with the eminent actor were shown.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Defense, Security and Combatting Corruption of the Milli Majlis Aydin Mirzazada, People’s Artist of Azerbaijan Abdul Makhmudov, Director of the film studio "Azerbaijanfilm" Mushfig Gatamov and Honored Artist of the republic Khalida Guliyeva provided an insight into Rasim Balayev’s multifaceted creative activities and his contribution to the national culture. Then the actor responded to numerous questions from the students.

The event then featured the screening of “Nasimi”, a historical drama movie directed by Hasan Seyidbeyli.