A major celebration of Kurdish cultural heritage drew performers and audiences from across Europe to Duisburg, Germany, where the 36th Mîhrîcana Govendên Kurdistanê (Kurdistan Folk Dance Festival) took place on 7-8 June. The annual event brought together around 35 Kurdish folk dance groups from Germany, France and Switzerland, showcasing traditional clothing and regional dances.
Held at the Rheinhausenhalle Conference Centre, the two-day festival opened with a moment of silence to commemorate deceased artists, and continued under the moderation of Kurdish journalist Berfin Hezil. The event not only celebrated cultural continuity within the Kurdish diaspora but also served as a platform for intergenerational exchange and artistic recognition.
“These kinds of festivals help preserve Kurdish identity and foster unity, especially for younger generations born in Europe,” said one participant from France.
A panel of nine jury members, comprising six men and three women, evaluated the performances over the weekend. On Saturday, 19 groups took the stage, followed on Sunday by a further 16. The judges awarded first place to the all-women troupe Govenda Sîpan Amara from Hamburg. Second place went to Koma Nudem from Kiel, while third place was awarded to Koma Agire Welat, a group based in the Swiss city of Solothurn.
Beyond the competition aspect, the festival served as a vibrant gathering for Europe’s Kurdish communities, where traditional costumes and regional dances were proudly displayed, often accompanied by live music and chants.
The dance festival has become a cornerstone in the cultural life of the Kurdish diaspora, offering a rare public stage for Kurdish expression in the heart of Europe. With each year, the festival continues to expand its reach, highlighting the resilience and diversity of Kurdish culture far from its homeland.
