Identity through Kurdish songs
Use of Kurdish dialects
Kurdish patriotic songs are usually sung Kurdish dialects, mainly being: Kurmanji, Sorani, Zazaki.
During times when the Kurdish languge had been banned, singing in Kurdish was seen as s a form of resistence.
Therefore singing in Kurdish signifies courage through resistance.
Purpose of language
Singing in Kurdish also helps promote and maintian:
Kurdish heritage and inform younger generations of their history and culture
Helping to ensure that kurdish lanaguge, culture and identity doesn't die out in the face of nation-state borders.
Symbolism within song
Kurdish songs often mention key cultural elements:
Kurdistan’s mountains are often mention to signify freedom and refuge.
Traditional clothing is normally worn during concerts or practise. Garments such as the kras (dress) or sharwal (baggy trousers.
The use of Folklore and landscapes as well as historical figures and legends (e.g Kawa the Blacksmith)
Songs can also include their armed struggle and resistance shedding light upon their remembrance and martyrdom . Songs also explore their willingness of future generations and their defiance in the face of adversity to continue their struggle often until Kurdistand is granted.