A farewell ceremony is being held at the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theater for the renowned People's Artist Rasim Balayev, Chairman of the Board of the Union of Cinematographers of Azerbaijan, State Prize laureate, and recipient of the "Shohrat", "Sharaf", and "Istiglal" orders.
Operative Information Center-OMM, citing AZERTAC, reports that the ceremony is attended by high-ranking state and government officials, prominent cultural figures, and members of the public.
The body of the deceased has been placed on a pedestal on the stage of the Academic National Drama Theater, which has been decorated for the mourning proceedings. Wreaths have been sent to the ceremony on behalf of President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva, as well as various state and government organizations, to honor the memory of the legendary performer.
Colleagues, friends, and admirers of Rasim Balayev's craft have gathered at the theater to pay their final respects to the actor, whose unique portrayals in Azerbaijani cinema and theater have left an indelible mark on the nation's cultural heritage. Following the ceremony in Baku, the artist will be laid to rest, marking the end of an era for the country's performing arts community.
Rasim Balayev was widely considered one of the most influential figures in Azerbaijani cinematography. He gained national fame for his iconic roles in historical epics, most notably portraying the revolutionary poet Nasimi and the folk hero Babek. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a symbol of the Azerbaijani screen, contributing significantly to the development of the national film industry and the Union of Cinematographers.
