Govend/en
Govend is a traditional folk dance that forms an important part of both ceremonial and everyday life in Kurdish society. It is directly connected to Mûzîka Kurdî and is mostly performed collectively. Govend is a symbol of collective solidarity, rhythm, and a sense of unity at weddings, festivals, celebrations, and social gatherings.
Govends vary from region to region, and each one has its own distinctive rîtim, step pattern, and musical character.
Types of Govend
Below are some govend types found among Kurdish folk dances:
- Delîlo
- Bablekan
- Bazkiyan
- Bazkî
- Baztiyan
- Çepkî
- Çepik
- Sêling
- Klîçe
- Keçikî
- Keçkî Hildanî
- Semedanî
- Şêxanî
- Werwere
- Dûzo
- Giranî Dîko (or Dîk)
- Singsing (or Sînsîn)
- Temir Axa
- Ziravkî
- Tûra
- Diyarkî
- Qerecor
- Tîr-Kevan
- Sînanî
- Behiye
- Sivikkî
- Yar xweş tê (Yarxoştê)
- Qertel
- Cirîd
- Şundekî
- Paşdekî
- Sêgavkî Koçerî Serdestan
General characteristics
- Govends are generally performed hand in hand or shoulder to shoulder.
- Their rhythmic structures are mostly in 6/8, 2/4, or 10/8 meter.
- Step hardness, tempo, and instrumental accompaniment vary according to regional character.
- Accompaniment by Def, Zirne, and Tembûr is common.
Govend is not only a dance, but also a collective and ritual expression of Kurdish identity.