The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on received new models yesterday, according to the decision of the UNESCO Committee.
The traditional art of making and wearing women's silk headscarf kelaghai (official name) is recognized for Azerbaijan. "Making kelaghai consists of the following stages: weaving, dyeing and hand-packing pattern. Weavers choose thin silk thread from which the fabric of square shape is made. The colors of the headscarf have a symbolic meaning, often associated with a specific event: a wedding, a funeral ceremony, daily activities and celebrations. Kelaghai is an expression of cultural identity, religious traditions, a symbol of social cohesion. Its production and wearing strengthen the role of women and cultural unity of the Azerbaijani society," the presentation reads.
Instead, the Armenians received official blessing on assignment of lavash (pita bread). According to the site of UNESCO (http://www.unesco.org/new/ru/media-services/single-view/news/eight_elements_from_algerie_armenia_azerbaijan_bolivia_bosnia_and_herzegovina_brazil_bulgaria_and_burundi_inscribed_on_representative_list_of_the_intangible_heritage/#.VHbZ9dKsXfI), it is reflected in the list as "Lavash: preparation, value and appearance of traditional Armenian bread as cultural expression" (Armenia). We describe it as follows:
"Lavash is traditional Armenian bread in the form of thin cakes, which is an integral part of the Armenian cuisine. Its preparation, it takes more effort, concerted action and special skills, strengthens family ties, community and social ties. To bake lavash, women get together. Men are also involved in the process of its preparation by making tools and building furnaces. In lavash they usually wrap local cheeses, vegetables or meat. By tradition, at the wedding lavash is put on the shoulders of the newlyweds, to live in prosperity and well-being."
For a long time, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkey jointly challenged this element, insisting that the lavash bread is a sort of traditional bread, common throughout the region. --17D-
Culture
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Despite its rich historical past in Azerbaijan, donation culture faces numerous problems in modern times. Issues such as transparency in reaching the target audience, declining public trust, and the absence of sustainable support mechanisms are major challenges in this field. Additionally, the weak promotion of donation culture prevents its broader acceptance and development within society. Both education and modern solutions are crucial to enhance the social impact of donations.
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On a crisp December weekend, the Passage1901 venue in the heart of Baku came alive with the buzz of creativity, commerce, and community. The “Bizimkilər” (Ours) Festival, a celebration dedicated to supporting local brands, artisans, and small businesses, made its long-awaited return on December 14 and 15. With a fresh two-day program, the festival proved once again to be a vibrant platform for artistic expression, local entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
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In a vibrant tribute to one of Azerbaijan’s most beloved artistic figures, the Scientific-methodical and Advanced Training Center on culture (MEMIM), in collaboration with the Azerbaijan State Art Gallery and the Union of Azerbaijani Artists, concluded the "Tablolarda Nağıllar" (Fairy Tales on Canvases) exhibition-competition on December 13, 2024. The event celebrated the 115th anniversary of People’s Artist Səttar Bəhlulzadə, whose timeless work continues to inspire generations.
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November 25 – the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – marks the start of a 16-day campaign of activism, culminating on December 10 – Human Rights Day. This campaign serves as a global platform calling for an end to violence against women, featuring awareness initiatives, legal reform proposals, and public campaigns.
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