The sixth international Baneh Folk Dance Festival was recently held in the city of Baneh, Eastern Kurdistan, showcasing the deep cultural heritage and collective spirit of the Kurdish people.
Organized by the Baneh Cultural Directorate, the event brought together 12 dance groups, including 10 from across Eastern Kurdistan, one from the Fine Arts Institute of Duhok in Southern Kurdistan, and one from the city of Cizre in Northern Kurdistan. Each group performed traditional Kurdish folk dances, reflecting the diversity and shared identity of the Kurdish regions.
Speaking at the event, Ali Asghar Daryaei, General Director of Culture in Sanandaj, emphasized the cultural significance of Kurdish folk dance. “This dance is not only part of celebrations, but also plays a role in mourning ceremonies,” he said. “It is a widespread and enduring art form among the Kurdish people.”
Daryaei further explained the symbolic meaning behind the dance movements: “Stepping on the ground represents resistance, holding hands stands for unity and solidarity, and raising the head is a gesture of defense.”
The festival organizers highlighted that Kurdish folk dance continues to be a living tradition—one that carries historical memory, expresses collective resilience, and strengthens the sense of identity among Kurds across borders.
