Tradition Meets Modernity: First "Cheshdes" Held at Adyghe State University

The Faculty of Adyghe Philology and Culture at Adyghe State University (FAFK ASU), with the support of the republican organization "Youth of Adygea," held its first youth evening, "Cheshdes," inspired by traditional Adyghe gatherings, as part of the "AdygLand" cluster university project.

The main goal of the evening was to promote the Adyghe language and culture among today's youth. "Cheshdes" (Night Gatherings) were organized to allow young people to become acquainted with each other while respecting Adyghe traditions and decorum. The gatherings were supervised by elders and mentors, represented at the university evening by professors and Adygean scholars.

To create a cozy atmosphere, a safe fire pit was set up in the courtyard of the main building, and traditional Adyghe tables (Anna) were arranged.

The evening was hosted by folklorist Kazbek Nagarokov, PhD in Philology, a staff member of the Adyghe Republican Institute of Humanitarian Research. The program included four thematic sections. Zarema Tseeva, PhD in History and Associate Professor of the Department of Adyghe History and Culture at the Faculty of Physical Culture and Sport at ASU, spoke about the history of national dress, and her lecture was complemented by ethnic fashion shows from the ASU Fashion Theater, led by Natalia Devyakovich, Honored Worker of Education of the Russian Federation. A demonstration of ethnic clothing by Ruzanna Paranuk, a well-known young designer in Adygea, also took place on stage. Bella Tsey, PhD in Philology and Associate Professor of the Department of Adyghe Philology at the Faculty of Physical Culture and Sport at ASU, spoke about culinary traditions, after which guests were treated to national delicacies.

The evening featured performances by the popular post-folk group "Myst" and beautiful dance tunes by accordionist Asker Yeshugov. The evening concluded with a youth dance competition, the dzhegu, led by dzheguako Aytech Udzhuhu.

"This evening isn't quite like the old Cheshdes, as times are different now. But we tried to hold the event in a modern format while maintaining an emphasis on Adyghe traditions and culture, and allowing for interaction in a light, fun, and friendly atmosphere," said Zarema Tseeva.