A farewell ceremony was held on March 30 at the State Academic National Drama Theater for People's Artist Rasim Balayev, whose unique characters are forever etched in the memories of audiences. He was the chairman of the Board of Directors of the Union of Cinematographers of Azerbaijan and a recipient of the State Prize, the Order of Glory, Honor, and Independence.
Prime Minister Ali Asadov, state and government officials, members of the Milli Majlis, and prominent figures of science and culture attended the farewell ceremony.
The deceased's body was placed on a pedestal on the stage of the Academic National Drama Theater, which was decorated in mourning.
Wreaths were laid around the pedestal on behalf of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, and state and government organizations.
Colleagues, friends, renowned figures of culture and art, and admirers of the late artist's work came to the theater building to pay their last respects to the unforgettable actor.
First, the cherished memory of Rasim Balayev was honored with a minute of silence at the farewell ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Culture Saadat Yusifova conveyed condolences on behalf of the Minister of Culture Adil Karimli.
She noted that Rasim Balayev's passing is a heavy loss for Azerbaijani culture and national cinema: "The death of Rasim Balayev, who left an indelible mark on everyone's heart with his bright personality, has deeply shaken us all. He consistently elevated the prestige of Azerbaijani cinema with the films he starred in, and his creative work spans nearly 200 films. The artist's many years of activity have always been in the focus of the state; National Leader Heydar Aliyev and President Ilham Aliyev showed special care for his creativity. Rasim Balayev's work is a school for young actors."
Anar, Chairman of the Union of Writers of Azerbaijan and People's Writer, stated that Rasim Balayev was one of the brightest stars and greatest performers of Azerbaijani cinema. He noted that the artist gave eternal life to the characters he portrayed and added that his human qualities and unique characters will always live in memory.
People's Artist Shafiqa Mammadova conveyed that Rasim Balayev's death deeply shocked her. "This loss is very great and heavy for Azerbaijani cinema. It is difficult to speak about the artist in the past tense; Rasim Balayev lived an honorable life, and in friendship, he was an extremely loyal and devoted person," she added.
People's Artist Oktay Mirgasimov emphasized that they worked together on several films. "He was truly a great actor, a good friend. Working with him was a pleasure."
Speaking on behalf of the family members, Asim Balayev expressed his gratitude to the country's leadership for their constant attention to his father's art.
The body of People's Artist Rasim Balayev was carried from the theater building to the Alley of Honor. Prayers were read for the repose of the deceased's soul here. The body of the prominent artist was laid to rest. Wreaths and bouquets of flowers were placed on his grave.
Rasim Balayev's artistic legacy and memory will live forever in the hearts of our people.
May God have mercy on him!