Baku Film Festival removes film over 'immoral depiction' of 12th century poet
The Baku International Film Festival has pulled the short film Mahsati from its programme after the Culture Ministry intervened. Officials claimed the work disrespected literary heritage and portrayed the 12th-century poet Mahsati Ganjavi in an unethical light. The decision has sparked debate over artistic freedom and state oversight in Azerbaijan’s film industry.
Directed by Suad Gara, the 20-minute film follows a young actress struggling to embody Mahsati Ganjavi, seeking inspiration in modern life. Gara, the daughter of former Culture Minister Abulfas Garayev, described the project as a modern tale built in the spirit of feminism. The film had already screened at international festivals before its rejection in Baku.
The Culture Ministry blocked the screening, calling the portrayal of Mahsati Ganjavi *immoral* and *disrespectful*. Pro-government outlet *Qafqazinfo* later alleged the film contained subliminal messages contradicting the poet’s historical image. Festival organisers confirmed the disqualification, citing the refusal of a screening licence on moral grounds. Gara initially defended the work as a contemporary reinterpretation and criticised attempts to silence women’s voices. She later apologised, stating regret if her comments had caused offence. Meanwhile, Abdul Mahmudov of the Cinematography Agency distanced the body from the film, arguing it should have undergone official state review. The film’s co-writer, Taleh Bagirov, has not publicly commented on the controversy.
The cancellation leaves Mahsati excluded from Azerbaijan’s largest film event. Officials maintain the decision protects cultural values, while the filmmakers argue for creative freedom. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between state authorities and independent artists in the country.
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