The scientific seminar was held at the Department of Ritual Folklore and National Culinary Traditions of the Institute of Folklore of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS). During the seminar, a presentation entitled “Ramadan and Folklore Traditions” was delivered by Galib Sayilov, Chief Researcher of the Department, Doctor of Sciences in Philology and Associate Professor.

The presentation examined folklore traditions associated with the month of Ramadan, known in Azerbaijani national culture as the “month of fasting”. It was noted that, historically, both religious and non-religious people attached particular importance to Ramadan and observed various religious restrictions and traditions during this period. These customs were also noted to have played a certain role in sustaining and developing Islamic religious practices among the people.

In the presentation also addressed the influence of Ramadan on the social and cultural life of the people. It was explained that various prayers, rituals, customs and traditions associated with Ramadan gradually became part of folk creativity, contributing to the formation of Ramadan folklore.

It was noted that expressions such as “Ramadan shopping”, “Ramadan discounts” and “Ramadan evenings” illustrate how the month manifests itself in various aspects of everyday and social life. It was mentioned that many of these traditions emerged through the creative activities of the people rather than as a result of any official directives.

The presentation also highlighted the historical use of cannon fire to announce the beginning of Ramadan. It was noted that this tradition gave rise to the popular expression “The Ramadan cannon has been fired”.

In conclusion, it was noted that Ramadan Holiday (Eid al-Fitr) and the customs and traditions associated with the holy month occupy an important place in the cultural memory and folklore of the Azerbaijani people.

The scientific seminar was continued with a discussion of the topics raised during the presentation.