By Dr. Salar Othman
Since we have named this column “Songs of Zagros,” we cannot avoid talking about Zagros as a term and a concept.
Zagros or Zagroz, both of which are used in Kurdish writing and speech, is said to consist of two parts: “Zag,” meaning birth, and “Ros” or “Roz,” meaning sun. Together, they mean “the birth of the sun.” This meaning refers to the bright homeland of the Kurds, where the sun always rises over its proud mountains. It also refers to the idea that different forms of human life appeared here earlier than in many other places, such as Neanderthals who lived in the caves of Shanidar, Bisotun and Wezmeh.
At the same time, historical evidence, ancient legends and stories in holy books such as the Torah, Bible and Quran emphasize the belief that the Zagros mountain range was a cradle for the rebirth and new beginning of modern humanity, Homo sapiens. This is linked to the story of Prophet Noah’s Ark coming to rest on Mount Judi in north of Kurdistan. This supports the idea that Kurdistan is indeed the homeland of the birth of the sun and a place where human life began and was renewed.
Zagros is the longest and largest mountain range in Kurdistan. It begins in the Van area of north of Kurdistan and stretches to the Kerman region in Iran. It is 1,600 kilometers long. Its highest peak reaches 4,409 meters above sea level, and its area covers 533,512 square kilometers.
Zagros is a source of Kurdish pride. But sadly, Kurds, especially young people, do not have enough knowledge about it. The history of agriculture in this area goes back to 9,000 BC. Annual rainfall ranges from 400 to 800 millimeters, while temperatures can fall to -25 degrees Celsius. Most interesting of all is that Neanderthals lived there between 35,000 and 65,000 years ago. This shows that the Kurds are an ancient, deeply rooted people with a long history, civilization and heritage. However, the lack of a state, the hardships of history and internal divisions have prevented them from making full use of this rich and important heritage.
Zagros and its meanings should be given greater attention in all cultural fields and activities. This would connect the current generation and the wider Kurdish community with this history and ancient heritage, which should always be a source of pride.
Finally, I would like to mention that in 2005, when Zagros Television was established, several names were suggested. President Masoud Barzani chose the name “Zagros.” Since then, Zagros has remained an authentic voice in the homes of Kurds and around the world.