Baghdad, Iraq – Iraqi artists praised the Babylon International Festival for Culture and Arts for its powerful message and massive public turnout. Many agreed that the festival proves one truth—we are all Babylonians. The event has become a symbol of Iraq’s deep cultural identity and its enduring connection to ancient civilization.
Renowned actor Sinan Al-Azzawi reflected on the festival’s long journey. He recalled its start in 1986 and the sudden halt after 2003. That long pause, he said, nearly erased its original goals. However, the event made a strong return thanks to the efforts of Festival Director Ali Al-Shalah. He insisted on reviving the festival, even with limited resources.
Al-Azzawi admitted that he once doubted the revival’s success. Yet, the first edition launched. In the second, he played live music outdoors. During the third, he performed in the play Eight Gregorian Months. Each year added momentum, proving the power of persistence.
He emphasized that the festival means more than just entertainment. It reflects a city’s legacy, one that holds cultural and historical depth. Babylon represents resilience, and events like this show that the city still breathes art, creativity, and pride.
The people of Babylon also played a major role. Al-Azzawi described them as having excellent artistic taste. Since the 1980s, they have enjoyed opera, theater, folklore, and music performed by international guests. They now welcome the festival’s return as a revival of cherished collective memory.
Fellow artist Hassan Hadi echoed this praise. He called Babylon a cradle of human civilization. For over 7,000 years, the city has shared its message with the world through art and knowledge. The festival stands as a modern extension of that heritage.
Hadi also mentioned the slogan we are all Babylonians. He explained that this phrase honors the city’s timeless role in teaching writing, culture, and archiving. These practices are not just skills but signs of civilization.
Both artists agreed on one point: Iraqis still carry the values of Sumer, Akkad, and Assyria. They live with pride and love life in all its forms. The Babylon Festival is more than a gathering—it’s a declaration of cultural survival and unity. As the festival grows, so does the belief that we are all Babylonians—and we always will be.
