Ashik contests

Ashik contests are traditional musical competitions found primarily in Turkey and parts of the Caucasus region. Participants, known as "ashiks," perform poetry and music, often showcasing their improvisational skills. These contests are typically centered around storytelling, where ashiks express themes of love, nature, and social issues through their art. Judging usually involves evaluation of lyrical creativity, musicality, and performance style. Ashik culture is deeply rooted in oral traditions and plays a significant role in preserving local history and folklore, making these contests an important cultural event that highlights the region's rich artistic heritage.