Behbudi – Reformer of Thought

Mahmudkhoja Behbudi’s multifaceted activity encompasses numerous aspects of intellectual and cultural life. This article explores his creative and scholarly contributions as the leader of the Jadid movement, an outstanding writer, publicist, publisher, and educator, while also examining the connections between his ideas and the intellectual heritage of classical Eastern scholars and worldrenowned figures of science and literature. Behbudi’s reflections on progress and reform, as well as his articles on historiography, are interpreted in relation to the global intellectual tradition and the achievements of leading scholars. A comprehensive analysis is conducted of Behbudi’s articles published in the newspapers ‘Taraqqiy’, ‘Ulfat’, and ‘Hurriyat’. The study also highlights Behbudi’s use of supporting evidence drawn from scientific, historical, and linguistic sources to substantiate his views. In particular, his discussions of the term “sart”, which sparked debates in the press, demonstrate his ability to critically engage with the opinions of prominent scholars and to formulate well-reasoned, comparative conclusions.