A Great Loss for Azerbaijani Culture, APA reports.
According to the Ministry of Culture, prominent writer, novelist, playwright, literary critic, scholar, Doctor of Philological Sciences, professor, member of the Union of Azerbaijani Writers, People’s Writer of the Republic of Azerbaijan (since 1998), recipient of the "Istiglal" (Independence) Order (2003), statesman and public figure Elchin Ilyas oglu Efendiyev passed away on August 3, 2025, at the age of 82.
Elchin Efendiyev was born on May 13, 1943, in Baku. He began his literary career in the 1960s and became one of the leading figures of the "Sixtiers" generation, which holds a special place in Azerbaijani literature. He brought a new spirit, new values, and artistic expression to national literature and played an exceptional role in the development of the literary environment.
His prose works, short stories, and novellas have been translated and published in dozens of foreign countries, significantly contributing to the international promotion of Azerbaijani literature. Elchin Efendiyev was one of the most renowned representatives of Azerbaijani literature abroad.
Efendiyev’s rich creative legacy includes novels, novellas, plays, and scholarly critical works. His notable works such as Mahmud and Maryam, The White Camel, The Head, and The Standard Bearers are considered part of the golden treasury of Azerbaijani literature. As a prolific playwright, his stage works have been widely performed in both domestic and international theaters.
Beyond his literary contributions, Elchin Efendiyev played a significant role in the development of Azerbaijani statehood and culture as a public and political figure. Serving as Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan from 1993 to 2018, he was instrumental in the country’s socio-political and cultural life. In the late 1980s, as chairman of the "Vətən" (Homeland) Society, he made invaluable contributions to uniting Azerbaijanis living abroad, strengthening their ties with their historical homeland, and shaping the diaspora movement.
For his outstanding services to Azerbaijani literature and culture, he was awarded the "Istiglal" Order and other high state honors.
The Ministry of Culture expresses its deep sorrow over the passing of Elchin Efendiyev and extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. His rich legacy and immense contributions will forever live in the memory of our people.
May he rest in peace.
