CAI-TAJIKISTAN’ S RAMZIYA DAVLATOVA’ S FAVORITE NAVRUZ MEMORY
“ In my family, as in many Tajik families, preparing sumalak is always a special event. We usually start cooking it together several hours before Navruz, and it’ s a full family effort. Everyone takes turns stirring the large pot while we chat, sing, dance, and share stories. Once the sumalak is ready, we carefully distribute it among our neighbors, relatives, and friends. We usually take it in small bowls or plates, visiting each household to offer them a taste and wish them happiness, health, and prosperity for the new year.
One visit that stands out in my memory was to our elderly neighbor. She was always so kind and welcoming, and when we brought her some sumalak, she shared her own Navruz stories with us and blessed our family. That moment of connection, sharing food, stories, and laughter, really captures the spirit of Navruz for me. It’ s not just about the dish itself, but about community, generosity, and the warmth of being together during this special time.”
Ramziya Davlatova Program Coordinator Women Livelihood Program at Central Asia Institute-Tajikistan
ROOTED IN TRADITION | 9