“Thousand Daf" Festival, celebrating Kurdish culture in Palingan village
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) - For the second consecutive year, the vibrant "Thousand Daf" festival has transformed Palingan village in Kamyaran, Sina province, into a bustling hub of cultural celebration and communal joy.
Nestled in northwestern Iran (Rojhilat), Palingan village boasts a rich historical legacy as the former capital of the Kurdish Ardalan Principality, drawing tourists with its picturesque stair-structured houses and strategic geographic location.
Renowned for its annual Newroz festivities, Palingan has garnered international acclaim as a cultural hotspot, with the "Thousand Daf" festival emerging as a cornerstone of its cultural calendar.
Each year, over 1000 male and female participants converge to partake in the rhythmic beats of the daf, an ancient Kurdish instrument steeped in tradition and spirituality.
"We have guests from all corners of Iran and beyond flocking to partake in these sacred rituals. This has not only invigorated the local economy but also bolstered our efforts to secure UNESCO recognition for Palingan as a world heritage site," remarked a local resident to Kurdistan 24's correspondent Kamel Bokani.
Journeying from as far as Kalar in the Kurdistan Region, visitors marveled at the spectacle of the festival, expressing admiration for its cultural significance and sheer beauty. Amidst the rhythmic cadence of the daf, participants and spectators alike reveled in the spirit of camaraderie and cultural pride.
The daf, a framed drum with a simple yet powerful sound, holds deep cultural significance within Kurdish heritage. Traditionally used in Sufi rituals and entertainment gatherings, the instrument has enjoyed resurgence in popularity, with Kurdish musicians incorporating its melodious tones into contemporary music compositions.
In a testament to its growing influence, the "Thousand Daf" festival has attracted participants from diverse backgrounds, echoing the universal appeal of Kurdish culture and music. As a vital component of Hawraman's cultural landscape, Palingan village has already earned UNESCO recognition as a world cultural heritage site, underscoring its historical and cultural significance.
Buoyed by the success of the festival, organizers are now fervently pursuing UNESCO registration for the event, aiming to further elevate Kurdish culture onto the global stage. With an estimated 100,000 tourists descending upon Palingan village this year, the "Thousand Daf" festival continues to serve as a beacon of cultural resilience and unity, uniting participants in a celebration of Kurdish heritage and identity.
The "Thousand Daf" festival represents a vibrant tapestry of Kurdish culture and tradition, offering a platform for artistic expression and communal celebration. Situated within the historic confines of Palingan village, the festival serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Kurdish heritage in the face of modernization and change.
The UNESCO recognition of Palingan village as a world cultural heritage site underscores the region's profound cultural significance, affirming its status as a custodian of Kurdish history and identity. By showcasing the rich tapestry of Kurdish music, dance, and folklore, the "Thousand Daf" festival reaffirms the resilience and vitality of Kurdish culture, inspiring generations to come.
Here are some more photos of the festival:
