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ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Nearly 800 kilometers away from their homes in Damascus, a troupe of performers is making the capital of the Kurdistan Region ring with the sounds of their traditional music.
Swirling and dancing with sabers is an iconic feature of the Old Damascus Band that follows the Mevlivi Sufi order.
"Three years ago, I came to Erbil to demonstrate this dance. People liked it and asked us to return. Then I came with my father and brothers and nephews," Bilal Taltier, a native Damascus dancer, told Rudaw.
Performances during Ramadan are special for the group.
"Mevlivi is everywhere — where there is the name of God and His Prophet. It is about peace. We are showcasing a peaceful Ramadan," he added.
There are more than 250,000 Syrians living in the Kurdistan Region.
“This atmosphere reminds us of Syria — especially the events during the holy month of Ramadan in Damascus, Sheikh Mehiedin neighborhood, or the seven gates of Damascus," said Rafaat Khalaf, a Syrian refugee. "There were lots of these Mevlivi dances and shows.
"It is nice to be able to live in the same atmosphere here in Erbil, Kurdistan."
Even outside of their native country, they want to preserve their culture.
“Our branch has been open for three years here in Erbil. We do this during Ramadan and also perform in restaurants. We are very welcomed by Kurds here," said Abu Noor, the group's leader.
Swirling and dancing with sabers is an iconic feature of the Old Damascus Band that follows the Mevlivi Sufi order.
"Three years ago, I came to Erbil to demonstrate this dance. People liked it and asked us to return. Then I came with my father and brothers and nephews," Bilal Taltier, a native Damascus dancer, told Rudaw.
Performances during Ramadan are special for the group.
"Mevlivi is everywhere — where there is the name of God and His Prophet. It is about peace. We are showcasing a peaceful Ramadan," he added.
There are more than 250,000 Syrians living in the Kurdistan Region.
“This atmosphere reminds us of Syria — especially the events during the holy month of Ramadan in Damascus, Sheikh Mehiedin neighborhood, or the seven gates of Damascus," said Rafaat Khalaf, a Syrian refugee. "There were lots of these Mevlivi dances and shows.
"It is nice to be able to live in the same atmosphere here in Erbil, Kurdistan."
Even outside of their native country, they want to preserve their culture.
“Our branch has been open for three years here in Erbil. We do this during Ramadan and also perform in restaurants. We are very welcomed by Kurds here," said Abu Noor, the group's leader.
Reporting by Rangin Sharo
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