Material from the Turmush archive / Publication from 2025
Nowruz is an ancient holiday that symbolizes the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year. Azerbaijanis prepare for this day with special care, adhering to traditional customs. In Karakol, Asif Ogly Talibov and his family actively prepare for the celebration, dedicating several days to it.
Asif Ogly noted that one of the main customs is the cultivation of green wheat — sameni. “For our people, sprouted wheat is the main symbol of Nowruz and occupies a central place on the festive table. We moisten the grains in advance and leave them in warmth until green shoots appear. This embodies the renewal of life, abundance, and prosperity. We believe that with the green wheat, well-being comes to our home. We always hope for the best,” he shared.
On the table, around the sameni, there are traditionally brightly colored eggs, gorgo (fried wheat), and watermelon seeds. Asif Ogly adds that gorgo is considered a favorite treat that children carry with them and eat during the holiday.
Fatima Talibova, Asif's granddaughter, spoke about the tradition of decorating eggs and playing with them. “We dye the eggs in different colors and sometimes decorate them with patterns. After the holiday, a game begins: one person holds an egg, and another tries to break it with theirs. If the egg cracks, the owner loses, and the winner takes both eggs,” the girl explained.
Also present on the festive table is dovga — a traditional Azerbaijani dish. “Dovga is a national dish that includes greens that grow only in the mountainous regions of Azerbaijan, so we order it from there. It is prepared as follows: kefir or ayran is diluted with water and brought to a boil, then a little rice is added, after which the greens are added and everything is thoroughly mixed. The dish cooks for about 20 minutes,” explained Asif's daughter-in-law, Ainar Talibova.
Asif Ogly Talibov is also the head of the public association "Khazar," which unites the Azerbaijani community in Karakol. According to him, members of the diaspora actively participate in city celebrations, which helps strengthen friendships with representatives of other nations.
Aibek Mayrykov, head of the Issyk-Kul branch of the Assembly of the People of Kyrgyzstan, noted that about 40 different nationalities live in the region, each celebrating Nowruz according to their traditions. “The Assembly supports the celebration of both Kyrgyz and ethnic traditional holidays. Nowruz is a time of renewal and spring for all Turkic peoples, and each diaspora celebrates it in their own way. In Karakol, representatives of various ethnic groups prepare national dishes, showcase their traditions, and wish each other happiness in the new year,” Mayrykov reported.
Azerbaijanis in Karakol not only preserve their traditions but also actively participate in the life of the region, creating an atmosphere of friendship and mutual understanding.
