Turkish music stars died at age 71
Here are 11 famous musicians from Turkey died at 71:
Sakıp Sabancı
Sakıp Sabancı (April 7, 1933 Kayseri-April 10, 2004 Istanbul) was a Turkish philanthropist and business magnate. He had three children, Sevil Sabancı, Dilek Sabancı and Metin Sabancı.
Sakip Sabanci was the youngest of seven siblings and grew up in a wealthy family with a strong business background. He graduated from Istanbul Technical University with a degree in textile engineering and later went on to work in his family's business, Sabanci Holding.
Under his leadership, Sabanci Holding became one of Turkey's largest conglomerates, with interests in numerous industries including finance, energy, and retail. Sabanci was known for his commitment to ethical business practices and for promoting social responsibility within his company.
In addition to his business achievements, Sabanci was deeply committed to philanthropy. He founded the Sabanci Foundation, which focuses on education, cultural preservation, and community development projects in Turkey. He also served as the chairman of the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts and was a vocal advocate for the arts in Turkey.
Sabanci was a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the Grand Cross of the Order of Saint Lazarus, and the Grand Order of Merit of Portugal. He is remembered as a visionary businessman and a dedicated philanthropist who made significant contributions to Turkish society.
Sabanci was not just a successful businessman and philanthropist, but also an advocate for education in Turkey. He believed that education was vital for the development of the country and established university scholarships, schools and vocational training centers in Turkey. He was also a keen patron of the arts and served as the chairman of the Sakıp Sabancı Museum, which holds an impressive collection of Ottoman calligraphy and Islamic art. Sabanci was committed to promoting cultural and artistic exchanges between Turkey and the rest of the world, and under his leadership, the Istanbul Biennial became one of the most prominent contemporary art exhibitions in the world. His legacy is still felt in Turkey today, as his family's business empire continues to thrive, and his philanthropic work has impacted countless individuals and communities across the country.
Sabanci was also actively involved in politics, serving as a member of the Turkish Parliament from 1991 to 1995. He was known for his moderate and pragmatic approach, advocating for economic reforms and improved relations with the European Union. After leaving politics, he continued to work on issues related to economic development and international cooperation. He was a member of several international organizations, including the Trilateral Commission and the World Economic Forum. Despite his many achievements, Sabanci remained humble and committed to his family and community. He was deeply respected and admired by people from all walks of life in Turkey and beyond.
He died in kidney cancer.
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Feza Gürsey
Feza Gürsey (April 7, 1921 Istanbul-April 13, 1992 New Haven) also known as Feza Gursey was a Turkish physicist, scientist and mathematician. His child is called Yusuf Gürsey.
Feza Gürsey was known for his groundbreaking work in the field of theoretical physics. He obtained his PhD from the University of London in 1949 and went on to work at many prestigious universities across the world, including Princeton University and the University of Paris. Gürsey's research focused on particle physics, group theory and mathematical physics. He contributed significantly to the understanding of the strong and weak nuclear forces and was also instrumental in the development of the Gürsey-Radicati conjecture in mathematical physics. He was a recipient of many awards and honors for his contributions to science, including the J. Robert Oppenheimer Memorial Prize in 1988.
In addition to his impressive contributions to science, Feza Gürsey was also a strong advocate for science education in Turkey. He founded the Feza Gürsey Institute in Istanbul in 1967, which was dedicated to promoting research and education in the field of theoretical physics. He also served as the President of the Turkish Physical Society and was a member of the Turkish Academy of Sciences. Gürsey was widely respected in the scientific community and is remembered as a pioneering figure in the field of theoretical physics. He passed away in 1992 in New Haven, Connecticut, where he was a professor at Yale University.
Feza Gürsey was born in Istanbul to a family of lawyers. He showed an early interest in mathematics and physics, which he pursued throughout his academic and professional career. Gürsey's contributions to theoretical physics were not limited to his research work alone. He was a skilled communicator and teacher, and mentored several students who went on to become leading physicists in their own right. His legacy continues to inspire young scientists in Turkey and around the world. In honor of his contributions to science, the Feza Gürsey Institute continues to promote research and education in theoretical physics, and his name can be found on numerous academic awards and fellowships. Gürsey's impact on the field of theoretical physics continues to be celebrated today, and his legacy serves as an inspiration to all who seek to make groundbreaking contributions to science.
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Sünuhi Arsan
Sünuhi Arsan (April 5, 1899 Istanbul-May 29, 1970) was a Turkish judge.
He was born in Istanbul in the late 19th century and later went on to pursue a career in law. Arsan obtained his degree in law from Istanbul University Faculty of Law in 1921, and went on to serve as a judge in various capacities. He was appointed as a member of the Court of Appeals in Istanbul in 1950, and later served as a prosecutor in Istanbul during the 1950s. Arsan was known for his meticulous attention to detail, as well as his dedication to ensuring that justice was served. He was also a noted expert in Ottoman Turkish language and culture. In addition to his legal career, Arsan was a prolific author, writing extensively on legal issues as well as topics related to Turkish history, language, and culture. Arsan died in 1970 at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy as one of Turkey's most respected judicial figures.
During his career, Sünuhi Arsan played a key role in the development of Turkey's legal system. He was instrumental in the drafting of the Turkish Civil Code, which was introduced in 1926 and remains in force today. Arsan was a firm believer in the principle of separation of powers, and was known for his commitment to upholding the rule of law. He was also a mentor to many young lawyers and judges, and was widely respected for his fairness and integrity.
Arsan was a prominent member of Turkey's intellectual community, and was involved in a number of cultural and academic organizations. He was a founding member of the Turkish Language Society, and was actively involved in promoting the study and preservation of Turkish language and literature. Arsan also served as president of the Turkish Historical Society, and was a prolific writer on subjects related to Ottoman and Turkish history.
Today, Sünuhi Arsan is remembered as one of Turkey's most distinguished judges and legal scholars. His contributions to the development of Turkish law and to the study of Turkish language and culture continue to be celebrated and studied by scholars and students alike.
In addition to his legal and cultural achievements, Sünuhi Arsan was also a dedicated family man. He married his wife, Hüsniye, in 1928 and they had two children together. His son, Cemil Arsan, went on to become a prominent lawyer and judge in his own right, and served in the Turkish Court of Appeals. Arsan was also a lover of nature and spent much of his leisure time gardening and cultivating exotic plants. He was particularly fond of roses and was known for his extensive collection of rare and exotic varieties. Arsan's personal library was also renowned, containing over 10,000 volumes on subjects ranging from law and literature to science and philosophy. Today, many of his books and personal effects are preserved in the Sünuhi Arsan Museum, which is located in his former home in Istanbul. The museum serves as a testament to his life and legacy, and is a popular destination for scholars and visitors interested in Turkish history and culture.
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Zeki Rıza Sporel
Zeki Rıza Sporel (February 28, 1898 Istanbul-November 4, 1969 Istanbul) was a Turkish personality.
Zeki Rıza Sporel was a prominent footballer who is regarded as one of the greatest players in Turkish football history. He played for Fenerbahçe, one of the top clubs in Turkey and was a key player in their success during the 1920s and 1930s. He was known for his outstanding ball control, impressive technical skills, and exceptional speed on the pitch. Zeki Rıza Sporel not only helped Fenerbahçe win numerous domestic titles but also represented the Turkish national team. In addition to his successful football career, he was also a talented painter and sculptor.
Later in life, Zeki Rıza Sporel served as a sports commentator and a football coach, passing on his knowledge and experience to younger generations of players. He also played an important role in the establishment of the Turkish Football Federation, which was founded in 1923. Zeki Rıza Sporel is celebrated as a national hero in Turkey and is widely recognized for his contributions to the development of Turkish football in its early years. In 1982, Turkey’s Footballer of the Year award was named after him, as a tribute to his legacy. Today, he is remembered as one of the greatest and most influential figures in the history of Turkish sports.
Zeki Rıza Sporel made his debut for Fenerbahçe in 1914 at the age of 16 and quickly became a star player for the club. He was a versatile player and could play in multiple positions, but he was best known for his performances as a forward. During his career, he helped Fenerbahçe win 12 Istanbul Football League titles, which was the top football league in Istanbul at the time. He also helped the club win the Turkish National Division three times.
Zeki Rıza Sporel's international career was also impressive. He played for the Turkish national team 17 times and scored 11 goals. He represented Turkey in the Balkan Cup and the Olympic Games, scoring important goals for his country in both competitions. His performances established him as one of the best footballers in the world at the time.
Apart from football, Zeki Rıza Sporel had a passion for the arts. He studied art in Paris and became an accomplished painter and sculptor. He created a number of sculptures and paintings that are still displayed in art galleries across Turkey.
Zeki Rıza Sporel passed away in 1969, but his legacy continues to inspire young footballers in Turkey. He is considered a true icon of Turkish football and a symbol of the country's sporting culture.
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Süleyman Hilmi Tunahan
Süleyman Hilmi Tunahan (April 5, 1888 Silistra-September 16, 1959 Istanbul) was a Turkish personality.
He was the founder and leader of the Nakşibendi-Hafizi order, a Sufi order that originated in Central Asia. Tunahan was known for his teachings on Islamic spirituality and his efforts to promote Islamic education in Turkey. He was a prolific writer and his works include several books on Sufi philosophy and Islamic spirituality. Tunahan lived through a tumultuous period in Turkish history that saw the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. Despite the challenges of the time, he remained committed to his spiritual mission and his legacy continues to inspire many in Turkey and beyond.
Tunahan was born in Silistra, a town which was then part of the Ottoman Empire and is now located in modern-day Bulgaria. He studied Islamic theology and philosophy in Istanbul, where he became a disciple of several prominent Sufi masters. Tunahan's spiritual journey eventually led him to establish his own Sufi order, which combined elements of the Nakşibendi and Hafizi orders.
In addition to his spiritual pursuits, Tunahan was also involved in the political and social issues of his time. He opposed the secularist policies of the early Turkish republic and was critical of the government's efforts to limit the role of religion in society. However, he also emphasized the importance of engaging with the modern world and adapting Islamic teachings to contemporary circumstances.
Tunahan's contributions to Islamic education were particularly significant. He founded several madrasas and Islamic schools throughout Turkey, including the famous Darülfünun-i İslamiyye in Istanbul. These institutions played an important role in preserving and promoting Islamic knowledge in a rapidly changing society.
Despite his relatively short life, Tunahan's legacy continues to inspire many in Turkey and around the world. His writings, teachings, and institutional innovations have had a lasting impact on Turkish Sufism and Islamic education.
Tunahan's influence extended beyond Turkey, with many followers of his teachings and his Sufi order found in other parts of the world, including Europe and North America. He also had a considerable impact on Turkish politics, with his followers forming a significant voting bloc and supporting various political parties over the years.
Tunahan was known for his simple and humble lifestyle, and he encouraged his followers to lead similarly spiritual lives. He was also committed to social justice and often spoke out against inequality and oppression.
In addition to his written works, Tunahan's speeches and sermons were also widely revered for their spiritual and moral insights. He was particularly adept at using metaphor and allegory to convey complex spiritual concepts in a way that was accessible to all.
Tunahan passed away in 1959 and was buried in the Sultantepe mausoleum in Istanbul. His legacy continues to influence Turkish Sufism and Islamic education to this day, and he is remembered as one of the most important spiritual figures in modern Turkish history.
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Kadri Aytaç
Kadri Aytaç (August 6, 1931 Istanbul-March 28, 2003 Turkey) was a Turkish personality.
She was a distinguished actress, writer, and translator. Kadri Aytaç graduated from Ankara State Conservatory Theatre Department and started her career with acting roles in various theaters. Later, she became part of the National Theatre of Turkey and performed in various plays throughout her career. Aytaç also wrote several plays, books, and translations throughout her lifetime. She was known for her distinctive acting talent and her contributions to the Turkish literature and theatre world. Kadri Aytaç passed away at the age of 71 due to a heart attack.
In addition to her work in the theatre, Kadri Aytaç also had a successful career in film and television. She appeared in several acclaimed Turkish films, including "Düdükçülerle Fırçacılar" and "Utanç". She also acted in numerous television dramas, earning critical and popular acclaim for her performances. Outside of acting, Aytaç was known for her activism and support for women's rights. She was a member of the Turkish Women's Union and was involved in various organizations promoting gender equality. Aytaç received several awards throughout her career, including the Istanbul Art and Culture Foundation's "Lifetime Achievement Award" in 2001. Today, she is remembered as an important figure in Turkish culture and entertainment, as well as a feminist icon.
Kadri Aytaç was born into an artistic family, her mother was a well-known Turkish theater actress, and her father was a composer. This rich cultural background played a crucial role in her decision to pursue a career in the arts. Throughout her career, she performed in numerous plays, including works by famous playwrights such as Anton Chekhov and William Shakespeare. She was also well known for her work as a translator, having translated several works of literature from Russian and English into Turkish.
Aytaç was an influential figure both on and off the stage, serving as a mentor to many young actors and writers. She was highly respected in the Turkish theater community and was known for her dedication to her craft. In addition to her work in the arts, Aytaç was also a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. She was involved in various humanitarian causes throughout her life and was known for her outspokenness on issues related to women's rights.
Kadri Aytaç's legacy continues to inspire young actors and writers in Turkey and beyond. Her contributions to the arts and her dedication to social justice serve as a testament to her enduring impact on Turkish culture and society.
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Nejat Saydam
Nejat Saydam (September 15, 1929 Istanbul-October 25, 2000 Istanbul) was a Turkish film director, screenwriter and actor.
Saydam began his career in the film industry as an actor in the 1950s in films such as "The Falcon's Claw" and "The Broken Valley". He later transitioned to directing, making his directorial debut with the film "Beklenen Şarkı" in 1965. He went on to direct over 40 films throughout his career, including "Azerbaijan Kids" and "The Suspended Song". In addition to directing, Saydam also wrote screenplays for several films he directed, and was known for his collaborations with fellow Turkish director Yılmaz Güney. Saydam's contributions to Turkish cinema were recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including the Istanbul International Film Festival's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993.
Throughout his career, Nejat Saydam left a deep impression on the Turkish film industry. He was known for his creative approach to directing, often experimenting with different techniques to tell unique stories. His films often explored the complexities of Turkish society, addressing issues such as poverty and political corruption. Saydam's collaborations with Yılmaz Güney produced memorable films, including "Zavallılar" and "The Hopeless".
Apart from his work in film, Saydam was also a notable theatre director. He was one of the founders of the Ankara State Theatre, where he directed several plays. Saydam was also an accomplished writer, having penned several books about his experiences in the film industry.
Nejat Saydam's legacy continues to be celebrated by film enthusiasts in Turkey and beyond. His contributions to film and theatre have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, and his impact on Turkish cinema is still felt today.
In addition to his prolific career in film and theatre, Nejat Saydam was also an influential figure in Turkish education. He graduated from Istanbul University's Faculty of Economics in 1952 and went on to work as a teacher at several high schools and universities, including Istanbul University and Marmara University. Saydam also served as the dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Marmara University from 1986 to 1989. He was a passionate advocate for the importance of arts education and believed that the arts should be accessible to all. Saydam's impact on Turkish education is still felt today, and his contributions to the field are celebrated alongside his achievements in film and theatre.
He died as a result of heart failure.
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Mehmet Ali Birand
Mehmet Ali Birand (December 9, 1941 Beyoğlu-January 17, 2013 Şişli) otherwise known as Mehmet Ali Birrand was a Turkish journalist, commentator and writer. He had one child, Umur Birand.
Birand is best known for his contributions to Turkish journalism, particularly his coverage of political issues. He began his career as a journalist in 1964 at the age of 23, and quickly made a name for himself due to his incisive reporting and insightful analysis. Throughout his long and illustrious career, Birand worked for a number of prominent Turkish news outlets, including Hürriyet, Milliyet, and CNN Türk.
In addition to his work as a journalist, Birand was also a prolific writer. He authored several books, many of which dealt with Turkey's political history and current events. He was widely recognized for his contributions to Turkish society, receiving numerous awards and honors throughout his lifetime.
Birand passed away on January 17, 2013, at the age of 71. His death was mourned throughout the country, with many people remembering him as one of Turkey's most important and influential journalists. In the years since his passing, he has continued to be remembered as a trailblazer in the field of Turkish journalism, and his legacy lives on in the work of journalists and writers throughout the country.
Birand was born in Beyoğlu, Istanbul in 1941. He completed his primary education at Saint-Joseph French High School, and later went on to study political science at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. Following his return to Turkey, he began his career in journalism at the daily newspaper Cumhuriyet. Birand later went on to work for Hürriyet and Milliyet, where he established himself as one of the most respected commentators on Turkish politics. In addition to his work in traditional media, he was also an early adopter of digital media, launching his own online news portal in 2010.
Birand was known for his extensive knowledge of Turkish politics, and for his skill in explaining complex issues in a way that was accessible to a wide audience. He covered a wide range of topics throughout his career, including Turkey's relations with the European Union, Turkish foreign policy, and the country's relationship with the United States. He was also known for his coverage of the Kurdish conflict in Turkey, and for his efforts to promote dialogue between the Turkish government and Kurdish groups.
Birand received numerous awards and honors throughout his lifetime, including the Sedat Simavi Award for journalism in 1985 and the Grand Cross of Merit from the German government in 1998. He was also a member of the board of directors of the International Press Institute and the World Association of Newspapers.
Birand's passing was a significant loss for Turkish journalism, and his work continues to be remembered and celebrated by journalists and readers alike. His contributions to Turkish society have had a lasting impact, and his legacy lives on in the work of those who continue to follow in his footsteps.
Aside from his career as a journalist and writer, Mehmet Ali Birand also played a prominent role in Turkish politics. He served as a consultant to several prominent politicians, including Turgut Ozal, Suleyman Demirel, and Necmettin Erbakan. In the 1980s, he was instrumental in the establishment of the center-right True Path Party (DYP), and he later served as an advisor to the party's leader, Mehmet Agar. Birand was also involved in efforts to promote democracy and human rights in Turkey, and he was a vocal critic of the government's treatment of journalists and political dissidents. He was a frequent commentator on Turkish television, and his insights and opinions were highly sought after by journalists and analysts across the country. Despite his success and recognition, Birand remained humble and down-to-earth throughout his life, and he was widely respected for his integrity, honesty, and commitment to the truth. His passing was a great loss for Turkish journalism, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of journalists in Turkey and beyond.
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Nesuhi Ertegün
Nesuhi Ertegün (November 26, 1917 Constantinople-April 15, 1989 New York City) a.k.a. Ertegun, Nesuhi was a Turkish businessperson and record producer.
He was the co-founder and president of Atlantic Records, and is credited with helping to popularize jazz and other African-American musical genres throughout the mid-20th century. Ertegün grew up in a wealthy family in Turkey, and spent much of his childhood in Europe and the United States. He attended St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland, and eventually settled in New York City, where he joined his older brother Ahmet in starting Atlantic Records in 1947. Over the next few decades, Nesuhi worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and John Coltrane. He was also a passionate advocate for civil rights, and used his position in the music industry to help promote racial integration and social justice. Ertegun was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
Ertegün's passion for jazz music started early on in his life when his brother Ahmet introduced him to the music of Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. He soon became a jazz enthusiast and began attending jazz concerts in Europe and the United States. As a record producer, his vision was to showcase the talents of African-American artists to a wider audience.
Under Ertegün's leadership, Atlantic Records became a major force in the music industry during the 1950s and 1960s, releasing some of the most iconic albums of the era. He is particularly noted for his work in the field of jazz music, where he helped launch the careers of many legendary artists, including Ornette Coleman, John Coltrane, and Charles Mingus.
In addition to his work with Atlantic Records, Ertegün was a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice. He used his platform in the music industry to support racial integration, and was a close friend and ally of many leading civil rights figures, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
Ertegün's contributions to the music industry were recognized with numerous awards and honors during his lifetime, including induction into the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame in 1987. Despite his success and fame, he remained humble and committed to his work until his death in 1989.
Ertegün's legacy in the music industry continued long after his passing. His work in the field of jazz music has been recognized by historians and critics as crucial to the development and popularization of the genre. He also played a key role in the integration of African-American musicians into the mainstream music industry, paving the way for future generations of performers.
In addition to his musical contributions, Ertegün was also a noted philanthropist and supporter of the arts. He established the Nesuhi Ertegün Jazz Hall of Fame at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, and his name has been attached to numerous scholarships and awards in the fields of music and the arts.
Ertegün's personal life was also noteworthy. He was married to Maria Ertegün, a prominent socialite and philanthropist, for over 30 years until his death. The couple was known for their lavish parties and their close friendships with celebrities and cultural figures from around the world.
Overall, Nesuhi Ertegün was a multi-faceted individual whose contributions to the worlds of music and culture continue to be felt today. His passion for jazz and social justice, coupled with his astute business acumen and philanthropic spirit, make him a true legend of the industry.
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Ayhan Şahenk
Ayhan Şahenk (June 11, 1929 Niğde-April 1, 2001 Istanbul) was a Turkish businessperson. He had one child, Ferit Şahenk.
Ayhan Şahenk was one of the most important businessmen in Turkey and the founder of Doğuş Holding, which has become one of the leading conglomerates in the country. His company owns and operates assets in various sectors, including finance, tourism, media, real estate, and automotive.
After completing his education, Ayhan Şahenk began his career in the insurance sector before moving into the automotive industry. In 1965, he founded his first company, Otokoç Otomotiv, which operates as the main distributor of Ford Motor Company vehicles in Turkey.
Through his entrepreneurial spirit and exceptional management skills, Ayhan Şahenk successfully expanded his business across different markets, establishing a reputation as a pioneer in the Turkish economy. Today, the Doğuş Group is widely recognized for its investments in the construction of high-end hotels, marinas, and retail stores.
Ayhan Şahenk was also known for his philanthropic activities. He established the Şahenk Foundation, which provides educational opportunities for underprivileged students in Turkey. The foundation has built several schools and cultural centers across the country, and it continues to support academic research in various fields.
Ayhan Şahenk's legacy continues to inspire young entrepreneurs and business leaders in Turkey, and his contributions to the Turkish economy and society will always be remembered.
Despite his success as a businessman, Ayhan Şahenk valued education and was passionate about creating opportunities for young people. In addition to founding the Şahenk Foundation, he served on the board of several universities in Turkey, including Istanbul Technical University and Marmara University.
Ayhan Şahenk's son, Ferit Şahenk, followed in his father's footsteps and now leads Doğuş Holding as its Chairman. Under his leadership, the company has continued to expand and diversify its portfolio with investments in technology, energy, and entertainment.
In recognition of his contributions to the Turkish economy, Ayhan Şahenk was awarded several honors, including the Order of Merit from the Italian government and the Decoration of Merit from the Japanese government. He was also a member of the Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (TÜSİAD) and the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK).
Ayhan Şahenk's life and career serve as a testament to the power of hard work, ingenuity, and philanthropy. His impact on Turkish business and society will continue to be felt for generations to come.
During his lifetime, Ayhan Şahenk also served as the chairman of various international business organizations, including the International Ford Dealer Council and the International Chamber of Commerce's Turkish National Committee. In addition to his business and philanthropic endeavors, he was a passionate art collector, amassing a notable collection of Turkish and international contemporary art. Today, the collection is housed in the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, which was established by the Şahenk Foundation. Ayhan Şahenk's contributions to the arts and culture of Turkey are also remembered through the annual Ayhan Şahenk Contemporary Art Award, which recognizes emerging artists in the country. His dedication to promoting education, art, and entrepreneurship, as well as his achievements in the business world, have cemented his legacy as one of Turkey's greatest business icons.
He died as a result of myocardial infarction.
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Haldun Taner
Haldun Taner (March 16, 1915 Istanbul-May 7, 1986 Istanbul) was a Turkish playwright.
Haldun Taner is considered one of the most significant figures in the history of Turkish theater. He was also a novelist, screenwriter, and musician. Taner started writing plays during his college years and became famous for his satirical plays that tackled social issues. His works often depicted the urban lifestyle and the changing social and cultural norms in Turkey. Taner also wrote plays that explored historical and mythical themes, such as "Gözlerimi Kaparım Vazifemi Yaparım" (I Close My Eyes And Do My Duty), which was based on the legend of Şahmeran.
In addition to his theatrical work, Taner was a prominent member of the Turkish intelligentsia and was actively involved in cultural and political movements. He was a vocal critic of censorship in the arts and supported the democratization of Turkey. Taner's contributions to Turkish theater have earned him numerous accolades, including the International Theater Institute's award for best play in 1964.
Taner's legacy continues to influence Turkey's cultural life. His works are often performed and studied in Turkish universities, and he is widely regarded as a pioneer of Turkish theater.
In addition to writing plays, Taner was also a prolific novelist and screenwriter. His novels, such as "Yorgun Savaşçı" (The Weary Warrior) and "Utanç Yılları" (Years of Shame), explored themes of love, loss, and the human condition. He also wrote screenplays for several films, including "Minyatür" (Miniature), which won the Golden Orange award for best screenplay at the Antalya Film Festival in 1978. Taner was also a talented musician and composed music for several of his plays.
Taner's political activism and intellectual contributions to Turkish society were also significant. He was a member of the Turkish Communist Party and was involved in leftist movements throughout his life. He published numerous articles and essays on politics, culture, and art, and was a vocal supporter of freedom of expression and democracy. In 1971, he was arrested and imprisoned for his leftist views, but was released after a year following widespread protests.
Taner's impact on Turkish theater and culture is still felt today. Many of his plays continue to be performed and studied in theater schools across the country. His legacy as a prominent intellectual and political figure also endures, and he is remembered as a champion of democracy and free speech in Turkey.
Taner's life and works continue to be celebrated through various channels, including cultural festivals, academic studies, and artistic events. His contributions to the Turkish theater and literature are studied and analyzed by scholars and students. His influence on contemporary Turkish drama and literature is significant, with many playwrights and authors citing him as an inspiration. In addition to his artistic and political works, Taner was also a committed family man. He was married to Melahat Fındıkçıoğlu, who was also an accomplished playwright and screenwriter, and they had three children together. Taner's personal and artistic legacy remains an important part of Turkey's cultural heritage.
He died in myocardial infarction.
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