Ozodbek Nazarbekov commented on the fact that while singing at a wedding, he accepted the money that was given to him.
A video circulating on social media showing Minister of Culture Ozodbek Nazarbekov singing at a wedding ceremony and accepting money handed to him has sparked widespread discussion. The Ministry of Culture has issued an official statement regarding the incident.
The video was recorded on October 25, 2025, at the wedding ceremony of one of the ministry’s employees. It shows guests handing money to the minister.
According to the official statement, the situation was not pre-planned. It was taken into account that refusing to accept the money could have been interpreted by wedding participants as disrespect or disregard. Therefore, a positive attitude was shown toward the situation that arose.
The ministry stated that handing money to singers during wedding ceremonies is not prohibited by current legislation. This practice is considered part of national traditions and values that have developed over centuries. In Uzbek traditions, such actions are regarded as “orzu-havas”.
Officials also emphasized that Ozodbek Nazarbekov is not only a minister, but also a well-known singer. He is a People’s Artist of Uzbekistan, Karakalpakstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, as well as an Honored Cultural Worker. It was noted that the situation observed at the wedding should be assessed in the context of his professional activity.
“Any person, regardless of the position they hold, cannot separate themselves from their chosen profession. This situation should also be viewed from this perspective,” the ministry’s statement said.
Meanwhile, Kun.uz reported that the Anti-Corruption Agency submitted a formal notice to the Ministry of Culture regarding the incident.
It is also noted that this is not the first controversial case involving Ozodbek Nazarbekov. In 2024, he appeared in an advertisement for the Kingsman clothing store, and in 2025 he featured in a commercial for a private university. At that time, the ministry stated that there was no material interest involved.
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