As we reflect on the recent celebration of Newroz, the Kurdish New Year – a symbol of spring and renewal – we remember the vibrant gatherings that took place across several cities in Rojhalat, Kurdistan. Despite government pressures, the spirit of our people shone brightly. Thousands of Kurds came together to celebrate with songs and traditional Halparke dance, embodying resilience and our enduring quest for freedom.
Newroz is a time for joy and unity, a powerful testament to the strength of the Kurdish people against oppression. Through the joy of dance, we stood boldly against a regime that seeks to steal our happiness and identity. For us, Halparke is not merely a dance; it is a peaceful act of defiance against fear and darkness, symbolizing life and liberation from various forms of imprisonment.
We marked Newroz as a celebration of light triumphing over darkness, warmth overcoming the chill of winter, and freedom breaking the chains of confinement. Gathered around fires, we danced shoulder-to-shoulder, united in shared hope and determination.
Nietzsche said that “there is more wisdom in your body than in your deepest philosophy.” This reminds us that true liberation begins with an awareness of our physical selves. In our dance, every part of our beings harmonises, allowing us to experience profound unity within ourselves and with one another. In those moments, we shed the fear of judgment and embrace a sense of lightness and freedom.
When a dancer’s feet touch the earth, they simultaneously reach for the sky, defying gravity itself. How pitiful it is for an oppressor to believe they can steal the freedom of a people who soar towards the heavens.
As we move forward from this celebration, let us pray for continued strength and unity among our people. May we always dance in the spirit of freedom, in hope and resilience, and may our hearts remain forever open to the light that guides us.
