Sema
Today, Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 10 AM, the Lalish Cultural Festival was held at the Conference Hall of Duhok University with the support of Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. The festival featured various cultural panels and artistic performances.
The event was attended by Yazidi Prince Mir Hazim Beg, Baba Sheikh, Dr. Karwan Mohammed Sabir from the Prime Minister’s office, Majid Saeed Saleh representing the Governor of Duhok, along with numerous government and party officials, religious and social figures, and participants from different Yazidi regions. Organized by the Lalish Cultural and Social Foundation in Duhok, this year’s festival was held under the slogan: “Our Culture is the Source of Our Authenticity.”
The festival commenced with a moment of silence in honor of Kurdistan’s martyrs, followed by an official opening featuring sacred Yazidi music played on the def and shebab instruments.
In his welcome speech, Saeed Jardo, Head of the Lalish Foundation, expressed his pride in organizing this festival with the support of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, emphasizing its role in preserving and showcasing authentic Yazidi culture and folklore.
The event included various artistic performances, including a presentation by the Sharia Folk Art Group. Additionally, Baba Chawish was honored with the festival’s annual award, presented by Yazidi Prince Mir Hazim Beg and Saeed Jardo, in recognition of his sacred contributions.
During one of the cultural sessions, Ismail Sheikh Mirzo, Marwan Dawood, and Nato Slo discussed different types of traditional Yazidi songs, such as Khzimok, Payzok, and songs of exile, war, and love. Meanwhile, young Yazidi musicians, both male and female, performed pieces on traditional instruments closely tied to Yazidi heritage.
A documentary film directed by Mazin Esiani was also screened, highlighting efforts to preserve Yazidi culture in villages and rural areas. Additionally, the Rasen Music Group performed a series of folk dances reflecting Yazidi traditions.
As part of the closing activities, a cultural exhibition was held in collaboration with various branches of the Lalish Foundation, showcasing artifacts and artistic works related to Yazidi heritage.
Supported by the Kurdistan Regional Government, the annual Lalish Cultural Festival serves as a platform to celebrate and preserve Yazidi culture, art, and folklore. Despite the historical challenges and persecution the Yazidi people have faced, they continue to uphold and protect their rich traditions and cultural identity.