A march featuring a group of Azerbaijani women wearing traditional national headscarves known as kelaghayi is being held in central Baku today, organized by non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Axar.az reports that the march began in front of the Maiden Tower.

Representatives of civil society said the initiative aims to increase interest in national clothing, particularly the kelaghayi.

The kelaghayi is an important element of Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage, embodying the country’s centuries-old history, national identity, traditions and aesthetic values. Made from natural silk, this delicate headscarf has been an integral part of Azerbaijani women’s clothing for centuries. The kelaghayi is not merely an element of traditional dress but also a symbol of the nation’s spiritual values, elegance, beauty and femininity.

Azerbaijani kelaghayi is also internationally recognized. In November 2014, the traditional art and symbolism of kelaghayi, a women’s silk headscarf, was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The recognition highlighted the significance of kelaghayi not only for the Azerbaijani people but also as part of humanity’s cultural heritage.

Sheki and Basgal are among the main centers of kelaghayi craftsmanship. Traditional silk production, dyeing and printing techniques using wooden blocks are employed in its manufacture. The buta motif, along with floral and geometric patterns found on kelaghayi scarves, reflects the rich artistic heritage of the Azerbaijani people.

Preserving this craft, promoting it among younger generations and keeping it alive in everyday clothing culture are of great importance for passing national heritage on to future generations.

The kelaghayi march has attracted considerable interest from city residents and tourists.