Ashik poetry contests

Ashik poetry contests are cultural events primarily found in regions like Azerbaijan and Turkey, where poets and musicians, known as "ashiks," perform their work. These contests showcase improvisational poetry, often accompanied by traditional musical instruments like the saz. Participants compete by reciting poems that express themes of love, nature, and longing, demonstrating their creative skills and emotional depth. The contests serve to preserve and promote folklore while fostering community engagement and artistic expression. Judging typically involves criteria such as creativity, emotional impact, and performance style, highlighting both the art of poetry and the tradition of oral storytelling.