Islamic Solidarity Games: Iran Seizes Gold Medal at Zurkhaneh Competition
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian team claimed a gold medal in the men’s group team skills in the first day of zurkhaneh competitions held as part of the 4th Islamic Solidarity Games in Baku.
Host Azerbaijan won the silver medal, while Afghanistan and Iraq seized the bronze medal.
Teams from nine countries – Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uganda – took part in the first day of the zurkhaneh competitions, which will last for two days.
Zurkhaneh consist of two words: "zur" meaning power or strength and, "khaneh" meaning house, which translates to, house of power or strength.
Zurkhaneh is accompanied by the rhythms played by Murshud who sits in a place called the Serdem. The door "Serdem", is narrow and low with a passage leading to the opening. The serdem itself is 1 or 1.5 meters tall and is built from wood.
The shape and form of Zurkhaneh tools are taken from ancient weapons. The participants of zurkhaneh use equipment, such as a club bell, push-up board, shield, bow and chain throughout the performance.
More than 3,000 athletes from 54 countries of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation are competing in 21 sports at the Games.
The Baku 2017 Islamic Solidarity Games started May 8 and will last until May 22 in Azerbaijan’s capital.
