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Folklore ensemble promotes Kurdish culture, heritage at Damascus Opera House

Also in Syria Syria's fragile stability in focus after violence in Druze-majority Damascus suburb Four Druze fighters dead in clashes with Syrian government forces: Monitor Yazidi men freed from ISIS captivity, reunite with families after years of separation Damascus censures SDF 'calls for federalism' following Kurdish unity conference A+ A- ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - A Kurdish folklore ensemble, Ashti (Peace) Group, celebrated the richness of Kurdish heritage and cultural identity at the Damascus Opera House, showcasing traditional Kurdish attire and performing vibrant Kurdish dances. Speaking to Rudaw at the event, Syria's Culture Minister Mohammad Saleh stated, "We love life, peace, and coexistence, and we want to say that the culture we are keen on highlighting and exporting both domestically and abroad, is the culture of embracing each other and living with each other.' Syria is home to a mosaic of ethnic and religious communities. Events like this are seen as a celebration of its shared cultural heritage, despite its complex history. Idris Murad, founder of Ashti Group, told Rudaw that 'the purpose behind these events is to introduce Syrian cultures to one another and to present the authentic Kurdish culture. This could be the main reason I founded the Ashti Group. I believe the group can appear on the Syrian stage and represent Kurdish culture through art and performance.' For her part, Alisar al-Abdullah, who attended the event stated that she 'had limited knowledge of Kurdish culture prior to the event, which helped shed light on aspects Syrians often overlook about one another.' Abdullah emphasized the importance of such gatherings, especially now, to foster mutual understanding. "Kurds are an integral part of Syria, both geographically and culturally," she said, adding that Ashti Group's performance was exceptional.