Azerbaijan's prominent representative of musical culture, People's Artist, Presidential pensioner, State Prize laureate, and professor who also taught at Khazar University, Arif Imran oglu Babayev, passed away on August 1, 2025.

Arif Babayev was born on May 16, 1938, in Sarıhacılı village of Agdam district.

He studied at Baku Music College from 1953-1957, and later at the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts. In 1963, he began working as a soloist for Azerbaijan Television and Radio and gained fame within a short period. He became known as a masterful performer of classical mugham pieces such as "Shur," "Rast," "Bayati-Shiraz," "Segah," and "Karabagh shikastasi."

Arif Babayev was also engaged in pedagogical activities for many years, working at the Bulbul Secondary Specialized Music School, Azerbaijan National Conservatory, and Khazar University, playing an exceptional role in training new generation performers of mugham art. During his many years at Khazar University, he became a beloved teacher among the university community and students, earning deep respect for his simple and modest behavior. During his illness in recent years, the university administration visited the master artist at his home, sharing in his family's concerns.

Arif Babayev's multifaceted creativity and his services in preserving, maintaining, and developing the rich heritage of our national music have been highly valued by the Azerbaijani state. He was awarded the honorary titles of Honored Artist and People's Artist, the "Glory," "Honor," and "Independence" orders, the President's individual pension, and many other awards.

The bright memory of the great khananda, excellent pedagogue, true artist, and intellectual Arif Babayev will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

May Allah grant him mercy!