Folk Holidays in Samegrelo
One of the most interesting and diverse aspects of Samegrelo's cultural heritage is its ancient customs and folk holidays. These celebrations are deeply rooted in the region's history and reflect its unique cultural identity. Some of the notable folk holidays include Gorisjvroba, Kokhinjroba, Kalakroba, Giorgoba, Elioba, Marioba (also known as "Marashina" in Megrelian), Golgotoba (also referred to as "Gorgontoba"), Barbaloba, Easter, Akhalkire, and Jaroba.
These festivals not only provide an opportunity for communal bonding but also serve as a means to preserve and pass down the rich cultural traditions of Samegrelo. Each holiday has its own unique set of rituals, foods, and activities, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of the region. Through these celebrations, the people of Samegrelo continue to honor their ancestors and maintain a strong connection to their historical roots.
ST. GEORGE'S day in Samegrelo
The majority of Georgian religious holidays are connected with the name of St. George. St. George's Day was celebrated with special festivities in Samegrelo, as well as throughout Georgia. The celebrations included unique rituals and traditions that highlighted the deep reverence for St. George.
On this day, people would go around the church three or seven times, with a choir of singers praising St. George. "Slaves of the icon," dressed in white clothes with heavy chains around their necks, tended to the church and lit candles on the walls, creating a profound sense of devotion and community.
A detailed description of the St. George's Day ceremony in Samegrelo was provided by travelers:
"On April 21, a large crowd gathered in Chkondid (Martvili) for St. George's Day. In the evening, they started calling with two brass trumpets and ringing bells, including a wooden bell. The attendees approached the church with chants, staying near the church for two days and nights, continuously mourning and shouting. Each worshiper first approached the door and then circled the litany three times. The Catholicos and Metropolitan brought out St. George's icon and buried it beside the church. Many people gathered near the church and around the icon, loudly crying. The believers eagerly surrounded the preacher, who then spoke about the future fate of the country for nearly three hours. The Catholicos, metropolitans, dignitaries, and nobles listened attentively."
Archangelo Lambert, writing in the 17th century, provided interesting information about St. George's Day in Samegrelo. According to his report, a bull came from the sea to St. George and was sacrificed that day. The bull's behavior before its slaughter was interpreted as an omen: if it resisted, war was predicted; if it lay down easily, a bountiful harvest was expected. The bull's color also held significance: a blond bull indicated mortality, while a white and variegated bull was a good omen.
It was believed that a bull would miraculously appear in front of the temple doors every year on St. George's Day. After the service, the sacrificed goods were examined, and bread was served, often lasting several days. Megrelians believed St. George was an ordinary person from Samegrelo, known for his physical beauty. Several shrines dedicated to St. George were considered to have special power, including St. George of Otsindale, St. George of Ilori, Jege-Misaroni of Nokalakevi, St. George of Salkhino, and the Shrine of Alert.
Alertoba - Saint Alert Day
The shrine of Alert, located in the village of Alert in the Martvili district, holds significant cultural and religious importance. Alertoba, or Saint Alert Day, is celebrated on April 23rd and November 10th. During these times, many people from across Samegrelo gather to pray at the shrine. The celebrations include the sacrifice of animals and birds, such as bulls, goats, lambs, roosters, and chickens. Once these animals are sacrificed and dedicated to the shrine, they cannot be slaughtered thereafter. Additionally, offerings of money and candles are made.
For this day, families prepare special wine known as "warning wine" in autumn, which is carefully stored for the occasion. On November 10th, a bottle of this wine is sent to the icon of the shrine, while the rest is consumed by the family. This wine cannot be sold, underscoring its sacred significance.
The Church of St. George of Alert, dating back to the 18th century, is a notable structure located in the village of Alert within the Martvili municipality. According to researchers, the name "Alert" might be a reduced form of "Alaverdi." This church, along with the Ilori St. Giorgi, was one of the important shrines in Western Georgia.
According to legend, the site of the shrine was initially home to a pagan idol of the Moon God, Alert. Over time, a Christian temple was built on this site, symbolizing the transition from paganism to Christianity in the region. The celebration of Alertoba thus embodies the rich tapestry of religious and cultural history in Samegrelo, blending ancient traditions with Christian practices.
Otutashkhuri in Samegrelo
Otutashkhuri, also known as Tutashkha (Monday) or "Happy Monday," is a unique tradition in Samegrelo that concludes on the Monday of Great Lent. This day is celebrated with specific rituals and customs that are deeply rooted in the cultural practices of the region.
For Tutashkha-Bednieri, families would prepare in advance by storing bread in a clean place and reserving a special pitcher of wine in the cellar from the autumn harvest. On the day itself, the head woman of the family would bake two cakes for each family member, placing beans in the center. The cakes for women were round, while for men, one was round, and the other was more elongated. On the eve of the holiday, families would break bread, light candles, and pray together.
On Monday morning, the head housekeeper would rise early and clean the house thoroughly, focusing especially on the area near the fire. She would fast all day, abstaining even from water until the evening. When the moon appeared, all the men of the family would go to the cellar, known as "zesheshe, satutaskho kveri," taking stones, candles, and incense with them. The eldest man would lead a prayer, asking for blessings and prosperity for the family. Each candle lit represented a family member.
Upon returning from the cellar, the men would approach the house door and call out, "Open the door for us." A woman from inside would respond, "What’s wrong with you?" The men would reply, "Peace and happiness," while holding belts in their hands. As the door opened, they would throw the belts against the wall and say, "Happy Tutashkha, this is how you have multiplied people and goods in our family." This ritual symbolized the hope for peace, prosperity, and the multiplication of family and wealth, reflecting the deep cultural values and communal spirit of the Megrelian people.