Today, the opening of the International Dance and Folklore Festival “Avaza – Land of Friendship” took place at the National Tourist Zone “Avaza.”

In the International Year of Peace and Trust, marked by the celebration of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, the country systematically holds large-scale international events that promote the development of cultural and humanitarian relations with countries around the world. This current international forum is intended to introduce the peoples of the world to Turkmen national dance art and ancient folklore, as well as to expand intercultural ties.

Since acquiring the status of neutrality, Turkmenistan has taken on the responsibility to build harmonious relations with neighboring countries, to propose initiatives aimed at strengthening peace and security, and to be a guarantor of the well-being of its citizens.

Members of the Government, leaders and representatives of international organizations, relevant ministries, performers of national musical instruments, scientists and specialists, cultural figures, dance groups from Iran, India, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, as well as media, university faculty and students of specialized universities gathered at the Avaza NTZ water park to participate in the event, organized by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the khakimlik of Balkan velayat.

At the solemn opening of the international festival, great attention was given to the welcoming address by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, in which he emphasized that this year marks the wide celebration of the 30th anniversary of permanent neutrality both domestically and abroad. Committed to the status of permanent neutrality, Turkmenistan consistently develops relations with countries worldwide and reputable international organizations. Today, the implementation of the high goals and objectives arising from the country’s permanent neutrality status plays an important role in strengthening peace and trust in the region and the world.

In his message, the head of state noted that “dance and folklore art play a special role in strengthening peace, friendship, and brotherhood, bringing kindness into human hearts and uniting people. The main goal of the international festival is the development and further expansion of cooperation in the field of culture.”

Following this, a joint concert was held on the water park stage. The audience warmly welcomed dance and music groups from various countries. Some of them have participated more than once in international cultural events held in our country. This day presented a rich variety of musical genres, original national melodies, and samples of the ancient traditions of different peoples.

The performances reflected the main ideological focus of the festival – broad and multifaceted study of the cultural heritage of the peoples of the world and the development of friendly relations. The audience had the opportunity to enjoy a magnificent performance where musical traditions of the peoples of the world merged, and to hear the enchanting sounds of ancient instruments.

Famous dance and folklore ensembles from our country, popular performers of folk dances and songs, shone with their talents, presenting Turkmen art. They captivated the audience and festival participants with the performance of the Kushtdepdi dance. Using a choreographic language honed over centuries and enhanced by vocal vibrations, the artists tell stories about the endless cycle of existence, love, and the miracle of new life, revealing the worldview significance of rituals. As the tempo increases, the dancers energetically involve the audience in a whirlpool of emotions.

Participants of the international forum expressed deep gratitude to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov for his policy, which prioritizes the preservation of invaluable national heritage, the development of science, culture, and art, comprehensive support for scientists, and the activation of international ties in the humanitarian sphere.

Within the framework of the festival, an international forum titled “Küştdepdi – parahatçylyk waspçysy,” dedicated to the study of folklore and traditions of folk dance, is planned to take place in the conference hall of the “Daýanç” wellness center.

As is known, from generation to generation, the Turkmen people have passed down and perfected national traditions and customs, folk creativity, and unique folklore art, which embody their mentality and spiritual and moral values. 

Thanks to the uniqueness of the national art of singing and dancing “Kushtdepdi” and its ancient origins, it was inscribed in 2017 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This dance carries a powerful life-affirming message, uniting history and modernity, as well as representatives of diverse cultures.

Folklore choreography is an achievement of a people who, through dance, conveyed and continue to convey their thoughts, feelings, moods, and attitudes toward life phenomena. Folk dance and music, closely connected with everyday life in rituals and ceremonies, beliefs, family celebrations, and folk festivals, carry a huge emotional charge, express the richness and uniqueness of national cultural heritage, and unite the peoples of the world in creative communication. The current international forum is an example of this, having great significance in enriching knowledge, as well as in developing professional contacts and exchanging experience.

Creative meetings and choreography masterclasses will be held over the course of three days. Folk art groups and folklore-ethnographic ensembles will perform every evening with programs reflecting the national art of their peoples.

A cultural program has been organized for guests, providing an opportunity to explore the National Tourist Zone “Avaza” and take a boat ride.

The solemn closing of the International Dance and Folklore Festival “Avaza – Land of Friendship,” the awarding of diplomas, and the final joint concert of creative teams will take place on June 6 at the Avaza water park.