TEHRAN, Nov. 03 (MNA) - In the heart of Iran's mountainous west, Kurdish weddings are among the most colorful and lively cultural celebrations in the country.
Beyond being a union between two individuals, Kurdish weddings represent a deep-rooted social and cultural event, a vibrant display of heritage, community, and joy. These ceremonies, often held in open fields or village courtyards, reflect the Kurdish people's strong sense of identity, hospitality, and love for music and dance.
Kurdish People and Their Homeland
The Kurdish population in Iran is mainly concentrated in the western provinces, including Kordestan, Kermanshah, West Azarbaijan, and parts of Ilam. Each region has its own dialect, dress style, and unique customs, yet all share a common cultural foundation rooted in Kurdish history and traditions. Cities such as Sanandaj, Mahabad, Kermanshah, and Marivan are known for their rich folklore, traditional music, and warm hospitality.
Engagement and Preparations
The journey toward marriage begins long before the wedding day. Traditionally, elders from the groom's family visit the bride's home to formally ask for her hand in marriage. Once the families reach an agreement, they exchange symbolic gifts such as sweets, fabric, and sometimes gold, marking the start of the engagement period.
Preparations for the wedding are extensive and involve the entire community. Relatives and neighbors contribute food, decorations, and music arrangements, turning the celebration into a collective effort that reinforces social bonds.
The Wedding Ceremony
Kurdish weddings usually last several days, filled with music, dancing, and feasting. One of the most iconic elements is the halparke, a traditional group dance where men and women form large circles, holding hands or pinkies, and move rhythmically to the sound of daf (frame drum) and sorna (a wind instrument). The lead dancer, often carrying a colorful handkerchief, sets the pace and energy of the dance.
The bride typically wears a stunning traditional dress made of vibrant velvet or silk, adorned with coins and jewelry that shimmer under the sunlight. The groom wears Kurdish attire, often including a wide belt and vest. During the ceremony, guests shower the couple with sweets, rice, or flower petals -- symbols of prosperity and happiness.
Symbolism and Community Spirit
Every element of a Kurdish wedding carries symbolic meaning. The music signifies unity and resistance, the dances celebrate life and collective strength, and the feast represents abundance. The community's participation underscores the Kurdish belief that marriage is not just between two people, but between families -- and indeed, the entire village.
Even today, as modern influences reshape many aspects of life, Kurdish people continue to preserve these age-old traditions. A Kurdish wedding remains not only a joyful event but also a proud expression of cultural identity -- a living testament to the resilience and beauty of Kurdish heritage in Iran.
Reported by Marzieh Rahmani