This article explores the life, socio-political, and scientific activities of Mahmudkhodja Behbudi, a key figure and ideological leader of the Turkestan Jadid movement. The study examines Behbudi’s pivotal role in the early 20th-century national awakening, focusing on his contributions to educational reform, modern journalism, theatrical arts, and the conceptualization of national independence. Utilizing historical-analytical and biographical methods, the research analyzes how Behbudi utilized press platforms and the new-method (usul-i jadid) schools to foster socio-cultural modernization and political consciousness among the Central Asian population. The findings highlight Behbudi's legacy as a foundational strategist for national sovereignty, whose pedagogical and reformist ideas continue to influence Uzbek socio-cultural history. The study underscores the historical significance of his martyrdom and evaluates his long-term impact

Mahmudkhodja Behbudi, Jadidism, Turkestan enlightenment, educational reform, socio-political thought, national independence, Uzbek cultural history, Ismail Gasprinsky.

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