Identity of the Descendants of Kobuletian Muhajirs (Age and Gender Aspects)

Abstract

In Turkey, the descendants of Kobuletian muhajirs are the most densely settled. Their ethnic identity is dynamic and multifactorial, shaped by both cultural memory and the sociocultural environment. The research reveals the significant roles of age and gender in the preservation and transformation of culture. The materials reflect intercultural dialogues and conflicts.

Instead of assimilation, the study highlights the influence of Georgian agricultural expertise on Turks, including the introduction of crops such as hazelnuts, persimmons, and potatoes. However, Turks are currently economically stronger.

Gender differences are distinctly expressed in marriage customs, mourning practices, and culinary traditions. Women are the main carriers of cultural memory, particularly evident in rituals of mourning and culinary practices.

Alongside Georgian dishes such as ghomi, chadi, and pkhali, as well as traditional food-related terms like malakhto, pkhal-lobio, and khachapuri, the Turkish gastronomic vocabulary—chorba, surunji, tatli, and börek—is also widely used. There are distinct differences between Georgian and Turkish cuisine, particularly in the use of ingredients such as herbs, hazelnuts, and walnuts. Typically, Georgian dishes are served at wedding feasts.

The customs surrounding funerals and mourning are rooted in Islam, where the deceased are typically buried on the same day, and the bereaved refrain from wearing black. Nonetheless, Christian elements persist in certain expressions (e.g., mama gitshkhonda, mamatskhonebuli: (lit.) may your father be blessed, the blessed one// May your father rest in peace// God rest your father's soul). Saint George is also mentioned in blessings. Cultural memory is reflected in the following idiom: rusi khum ar mogdevs? Is the Russian chasing you?

The older generation has a strong command of Georgian, while younger people understand the language but are unable to communicate in it. They receive their education in Turkish, which considerably weakens their role in maintaining linguistic identity relative to the older generation.

The traditions of hospitality are largely preserved. Marriage traditions have transformed; intermarriage is now accepted, however, there is still a tendency for Georgian women to avoid marrying Turks. Young people are making their own choices; parental influence has weakened, the role of matchmakers is disregarded, and some older practices (such as night weddings, excessive joking, and setting the table) are almost forgotten.

Identity is best preserved in culinary traditions, although the impact of religious identity is significant: wine is not served at funerals or weddings. Unlike young people, the elderly maintain both their ethnic and cultural identities, as well as traditional agricultural practices.