The Yarsan religion, rooted in the Mithraic period over 4,000 years ago, has preserved many of its ancient traditions, including its unique festivals. Among these is the Qawltas (or Qutas) Festival, a significant celebration for the Kakais, an ancient and integral group of Kurdistan.
The Yarsans, also known as the Kakais, follow a faith steeped in ancient Kurdish beliefs, originating in the regions of Loristan, Goran, and Hawraman. Over centuries, the Kakais have faced persecution and efforts to suppress their identity. Despite these challenges, they have steadfastly maintained their cultural and religious practices. Today, the Kakais are spread across several parts of Kurdistan, including Kermanshah, Halabja, Garmian, Kirkuk, and the Nineveh Plain.
The Qawltas Festival is a major cultural event for the Yarsan people, celebrated annually during the winter months, a time not familiar to many outside their community. The festival, known as the “Three Nights,” follows three days of fasting, starting on the fourteenth day of the great winter forty (Chilleh). It culminates on the third night, marking the festival’s official start.
On the festival day, the Yarsans gather at their Jamkhanas (community centers) to visit one another and extend greetings. An essential part of the celebration is the use of the Goran language, which the Yarsans must speak during the festivities. The Qawltas Festival lasts five days, during which the community performs sacred rituals that reflect their deep-rooted cultural and religious heritage.
The Qawltas Festival is not just a religious event; it’s a profound expression of the Yarsan people’s resilience and commitment to preserving their traditions.