The Azerbaijan Region of Iran (N.W of Iran) how always been one of the main centers of civilization and a symbol of power resistance and endurance in various eras of Iranian (Persian) history. This region its events and its people have always had unquestionable Effects on social changes and political policies of the county.
These changes in the flow of events in history. Have had a direct effect on the folk dance of Azerbaijan. It is obvious that because this dance reflects the ups and downs of Azeri History and the Azeri people it possesses a grade deal of richness and socio- historical importance.
There is such an intense relationship let wear the storyline subject and the general meaning of the dance that the observer can see quite vividly the reason blind the movements and the techniques. The movements of the Azeri dance are generally derived from various concepts such as religions worship rituals chivalry military tactics art of war and battle and even romantic dramatic and emotional expressions of the most beautiful of human feelings and emotions. In ancient times when humans held sacred most natural elements such as the sun moon fine water soil trees and animals dance wave always one of the best ways to express that respect and humility to these elements of nature.
In the east and especially in Azerbaijan these rituals had a special place among the people for example there is the “ Yalli ” a kind of group dance (done chain-like and hand in hand). This was of asking the lord for the daily bread. H started out as a dance and lead to a group activity like hunting. The drawing on the “Qubusan” rocks near Baku (in the country of Azerbaijan) is living proof of such rituals. It’s interesting to note that scientists have estimated these drawings to be some thing between8 to 10 thousand years old. Which shows how for this area goes back in terms of its history of civilization.
The mene word “East” brings to mind emotions and feelings. It’s a place where people don’t take emotions lightly. Iranians and specially the Azeris of Iran have always been known for their deep emotions. The people of this region one also known for their modesty restraint in behavior and non-flagrant behavior especially when it comes to social behavior. There from this kind of dance (If one gets to know it) is the best way in which such a people who have been brought up with a rich culture of music and art could express their feelings without seeming too socially inappropriate.
In the some way the war-like dances have been designed to picture the way this nation has always been ready to guard the lands it cherishes.
The physical flexibility and readiness of the dancers does not full short of the physical stamina of the imaginary soldiers they one trying to depict.
These dances are done with daggers swards and songs of epic bravery . It is worthy of note that in old times these dances were done by the soldiers themselves to demonstrate their spectacles military techniques. Text by khalil gholami azar (Atila)