Today – January 2nd – marks the birthday of several prominent figures of special importance to Azerbaijan. They are individuals who have left significant marks on the country's military history, culture, and national memory. Modern.az remembers these figures.
Polad Həşimov – National Hero, Major General
Today is the birthday of Azerbaijan's National Hero, Major General Polad Həşimov. He was born on January 2, 1975. Polad Həşimov served as an example with his professional military education, high discipline, and patriotism. His courage demonstrated during the battles in the Tovuz direction in 2020 is remembered with great respect by the public. His martyrdom became a symbol of national unity and solidarity among the people. Polad Həşimov was posthumously awarded the title of “National Hero”. Today, his name remains a symbol of honor both in the army and in the memory of society.
Natiq Qasımov – National Hero
Today is also the birthday of Natiq Qasımov, a brave warrior of the First Karabakh War and a “National Hero”. He was born on January 2, 1971, and joined the defense of his homeland from a young age. Qasımov's military career is primarily associated with the Karabakh front, and he demonstrated exceptional dedication in many difficult operations. He is known for his valor and unwavering will, demonstrated single-handedly during enemy encirclement. Although he was considered missing for many years, his bravery was recognized years later by the state with the highest title – that of National Hero.
Samandar Rzayev - Azerbaijani theater and film actor
Today is also the birthday of one of the prominent figures of Azerbaijani theater and cinema art – Samandar Rzayev. He was born on January 2, 1945, and is a figure who entered the history of art by performing hundreds of roles during his acting career. Samandar Rzayev was distinguished by the emotional depth of the characters he created on stage and his precise portrayal of their psychology. He performed with equal mastery in drama, comedy, and films with heroic themes. Film audiences knew him especially for his sincerity in expressing national characters. Films made with his participation remain among classic works even today. Rzayev's innovative approaches in his theater activities influenced both actors and directors. Although he lived for only 41 years, his artistic legacy lives on today and is not erased from the memory of audiences. Samandar Rzayev is always remembered as one of the bright figures of Azerbaijani culture.
