NGOs hold march in central Baku wearing national headscarf, kelaghayi

A walk-march organized by NGOs featuring a group of Azerbaijani women wearing the traditional national headscarf, the kelaghayi, was held in central Baku.

Operativ Media  reports that the march began in front of the Maiden Tower and continued through Icherisheher (Old City), the Seaside National Park, and Fountains Square. 

Civil society representatives stated that the initiative aimed to increase interest in traditional national clothing, particularly the kelaghayi. 

The kelaghayi is an essential piece of cultural heritage that embodies the centuries-old history, national identity, customs, and aesthetic worldview of the Azerbaijani people. Made from natural silk, this delicate headscarf has been an integral part of Azerbaijani women's attire for centuries. 

Far more than just an element of national dress, the kelaghayi expresses spiritual values and serves as a symbol of grace, beauty, and womanhood. The Azerbaijani kelaghayi is also recognized internationally. 

In November 2014, "Traditional art and symbolism of Kelaghayi, making and wearing women's silk headscarves" was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This milestone confirmed the significance of the kelaghayi not only for Azerbaijan, but for the cultural heritage of humanity as a whole. 

Sheki and Basgal hold a prominent position among the main centers of kelaghayi craftsmanship. Its production involves traditional sericulture, dyeing, and woodblock printing techniques. The buta, floral, and geometric motifs on the headscarves reflect the rich artistic vision of the nation. 

Preserving this craft, promoting it among younger generations, and keeping it alive in everyday fashion are of vital importance for passing national heritage down to future generations. The kelaghayi march drew significant interest from local residents and tourists.