34-year-old ashura tradition kept alive through collective effort in Denizli's Buldan district

In Güroluk Neighborhood, part of the historic Buldan district of Denizli, the ashura tradition, which has a deep-rooted past and is considered one of the finest examples of social solidarity, continued this year with an enthusiastic ceremony. The event, which attracted great interest from neighborhood residents and guests from surrounding regions, is notable for having been maintained uninterruptedly for dozens of years. The organization, realized under the leadership and coordination of Güroluk Neighborhood Head Paşa Ali Yılmazkoç, was brought to life through the unity and solidarity of the residents. The entire preparation process was carried out through the collective effort method, symbolizing bonding and mutual assistance.

It was emphasized that the primary aim of the event was not only an act of worship or distributing dessert, but also passing the cultural heritage on to the future. The ashura, carefully cooked by stirring continuously in cauldrons for hours, was served to hundreds of citizens participating in the program. The ashura dessert, which met with great acclaim at the serving stands set up in the neighborhood square, brought the townspeople together. It was observed that such organizations strengthen the neighborly relations often mentioned but hard to find in modern times and contribute to the socialization of the residents. The guests inquiring about each other's well-being together was evaluated as an example of loyalty extending from the past to the present.

Neighborhood Head Paşa Ali Yılmazkoç, who experienced emotional moments during his speech, stated the spiritual values the tradition holds for the neighborhood, noting that this tradition is a trust for them. He expressed that they dedicate this charity to the souls of all citizens who passed away in the neighborhood and migrated to eternity. Yılmazkoç said they would continue determinedly as long as they have enough life to sustain this meaningful tradition and that it would be passed on to future generations. In the organization where everyone who contributed was remembered with gratitude, the support of philanthropists and contributors was not forgotten.

The ashura tradition is kept alive similarly in various regions of Anatolia as an important part of not only Güroluk Neighborhood but also Turkish-Islamic culture. However, the example in Güroluk Neighborhood of Buldan holds a special place in the region with its 34-year uninterrupted period. This event, which has become traditional, is organized every year during the month of Muharrem and is one of the most important social events in the residents' calendar. Not giving up despite the difficulties experienced from the past to the present reveals how much importance the residents attach to their deep-rooted culture.

At the end of the event, Head Yılmazkoç conveyed his thanks to everyone who participated and wished that unity and solidarity would be permanent. The citizens expressed their desire for such beautiful events to continue. The organization, which emerged through the efforts of voluntarily working women and youth, is planned to be held more comprehensively in the coming years. Those living in the neighborhood stated that such activities reinforce unity and solidarity and offer an opportunity to transfer their culture to the youth.