Turkmenistan celebrates heritage with national carpet weaving contest
Young artisans showcase traditional techniques as part of effort to preserve centuries-old Turkmen craft inscribed by UNESCO
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan (MNTV) — A national carpet weaving competition celebrating Turkmenistan’s rich cultural heritage has concluded in the capital Ashgabat, with artisans from across the country demonstrating both their craftsmanship and their connection to centuries-old traditions.
According to The Silk Way TV, the competition, titled “Elegance in Secrets,” brought together 14 female weavers representing all regions of Turkmenistan. Held in three stages, the contest required participants to display completed woven works, demonstrate traditional techniques, and, in the final round, perform poetry and songs while playing the dutar — a long-necked lute central to Turkmen musical culture.
The event was ultimately won by representatives from the Ahal region, praised for their intricate designs and performance. Organizers described the competition not only as a showcase of skill but as a living embodiment of cultural continuity.
“We tried very hard to make this competition a real celebration of mastery, and it seems we succeeded,” said Ogulmaral Amandzhanova, chief specialist at the Turkmenhaly State Association. “The main goal is to pass on to young people the subtle and sacred secrets of carpet weaving. After all, it is part of our soul and our history.”
Turkmen carpet weaving was added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2019, an acknowledgment of its symbolic importance and intergenerational transmission within Turkmen families.
Speaking at the event, veteran craftswoman Bakhargul Gylydzhova underscored the tradition’s deep roots. “The carpets woven by our skilled girls decorate our weddings and homes,” she said. “I learned this craft from my mother and have passed it on to my daughters. I hope to teach it to my grandchildren as well.”
The contest formed part of a broader national effort to support cultural preservation and promote heritage-based education among Turkmen youth. Officials say such events are critical to maintaining the identity of Turkmenistan in a globalized world.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
