THE CULTURAL IDENTITY AND AESTHETIC EXPRESSION IN UZBEK NATIONAL DANCE ART

Abstract

Uzbek national dance art embodies the spiritual, emotional, and historical essence of the Uzbek people, serving as a powerful medium of cultural identity and aesthetic communication. Rooted in ancient Central Asian traditions and shaped by centuries of intercultural exchange, Uzbek dance reflects the harmony between human expression and natural rhythm. This article explores how aesthetic principles - grace, balance, and lyrical movement - intersect with symbolic gestures and traditional values to define the national character of Uzbek dance. Through an examination of regional styles, gendered forms, costume, music, and pedagogical practices, the study highlights how choreography functions as both a preservation of heritage and a dynamic space for innovation. The transition from folk rituals to professional stage performance is analyzed as a key moment in the evolution of national identity. The article concludes that Uzbek dance remains a living art form, integrating tradition and modernity while continuing to convey the beauty, harmony, and cultural unity of the Uzbek nation.