ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - A traditional Kurdish clothing festival was held in the northern city of Zakho in the Kurdistan Region, celebrating the iconic national attire worn by Kurdish men, in an event that attracted notable participation from musicians and bands, including prominent Kurdish singer Hozan Dino.
The festival was titled Shal u Shepek.
Shal is the term for trousers, specifically the Kurdish baggy pants that taper tightly at the ankles, that were originally designed to allow comfortable movement across the rugged mountainous terrain of Kurdistan.
Meanwhile, Shepik refers to the long-sleeved, vest-like top worn over a shirt, usually matching the trousers in color and fabric.
This traditional outfit is especially worn by Kurdish men during weddings, festivals, and the Kurdish New Year, Newroz, reflecting a deep connection to Kurdish heritage and cultural identity.
In addition to showcasing traditional Kurdish attire, the festival featured several panel discussions exploring the cultural background, history, and significance of Shal u Shepek.
In the evening, various groups from within and outside the Kurdistan Region performed on stage, presenting music and traditional dances from their respective regions.
Notably, a group from Lorestan Province in western Iran’s predominantly Kurdish regions (Rojhelat), as well as another group that traveled from Nigeria, attracted considerable attention from attendees.
The event concluded on Thursday night with a concert by renowned singer Hozan Dino, who performed several songs for the audience. Dino is a highly respected Kurdish singer, songwriter, and musician, widely known for his emotionally expressive contributions to contemporary Kurdish music, particularly in the Kurmanji dialect.