Sur Rituals in the Culture of Two Turkish Villages (Arkan and Kastan) in North Khorasan Province

Customs are one of the specific cultural and social issues of any society which have always played an important role in popular culture. The rituals of some communities are so extensive and comprehensive, and are held in various ceremonies and on different occasions. The rituals show the culture and beliefs of the people of each nation. Since some of the Sur rituals in the villages of Arkan and Kastan in North Khorasan Province are unique, carry symbols, and ultimately bring empathy and cooperation to the people of these two regions, this descriptive-analytical research tried to study these rituals with the aim of getting acquainted with the popular culture of these two regions, and the way they have held some Sur rituals in the past and preserved their customs. Field research was used to collect materials, making an effort to preserve and record the ancient rituals and traditions of the Turkish-speaking people of the region. The results of this study show that, from the past to the present with the modernization and progress of life in various fields, Sur rituals have undergone changes and even in some cases have been forgotten among the people of Arkan and Kastan. However, some ceremonies are still held enthusiastically among the people of these two regions, and their citizens strive to preserve and perpetuate these rituals.