An epic journey

The Circassian diaspora is fiercely protective of its dance, music and language.

At the first Circassian Language Conference in Jordan last month, a folklore troupe performed at a concert that echoed the Circassian spirit.

"As narrated in epics", says Dina Baslan, a Circassian
by descent and American-Jordanian student based in
the US.

The dance is symbolic of their tradition where men dress as Circassian knights, known for their chivalry and bravery, in black coats (tsay) with bullets on their chests and daggers (qama) on their belts. "Every move represents the pride and honour with which the knights fought for their homeland and people," says Baslan.

The women depict beauty and grace through fluttering dance moves, "but also represent strength, resonant of the times when their loved ones went to war," she says.

Circassian music is played with an accordion called pshina, the baraban, a type of drum and the pkhachach, a wooden instrument with slides.

Baslan learnt Circassian dance five years ago and remembers her trainer's words: "Keep your head up and dance with passion and pride.

You are personifying your brave ancestors."

The Circassian community preserves itself by adhering to the social code of conduct or the Adyghe Xabza. "We grew up being nurtured and taught how to behave at home and in public," she says.

The community also establishes social links through extramural clubs or Xasa that serve as a meeting place and language centre. "The Xasa arranges trips to Kabardino Balkaria Republic and Adygeya Republic," says Baslan who went on a three-week trip to the Republics at 16. "I hope to live in the Caucasus to learn the language like some of my friends have."

– Carolina D'Souza, Lifestyle Features Coordinator, Friday.