Behzad's miniatures, preserved in renowned libraries worldwide, have been inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage list, representing a source of joy, freedom, and hope in Herat, Afghanistan, the artist's birthplace. One of Behzad's modern-day heirs, Muhammad Yunus Qanai, passionately engages in this ancient art form, feeling transported back 500 years to the time of the Timurid sultans who supported artists like Behzad. Yunus expresses that each stroke of his brush allows him to relive the vibrant streets of Herat during its golden age.

Michael Barry, a global expert in miniatures, highlights Herat's historical significance as a cultural crossroads between China, Europe, and the Middle East, identifying it as "the Florence of the Islamic world" between 1404 and 1507. During its peak, the city flourished in arts and philosophy, fostering talents such as Behzad and the poet-sufi Abdul Rahman Jami. The recognition of the miniatures serves not only to honor this rich tradition but also to rekindle a sense of cultural identity and pride among the Afghan people amidst their struggles.

The UNESCO designation is more than a mere accolade; it represents a revival of Afghan heritage and a reawakening of hope in a region affected by turmoil. As artists like Yunus continue to carry the torch of miniatures, there is an optimistic outlook that art can serve as a means of expression and inspiration in rebuilding the cultural fabric of Afghanistan.