People of Dayrik, North and East Syria, celebrate Kha Nison–Akitu 6775 with music, dance, and cultural events

DAYRIK, North and East Syria — The Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community in Dayrik (Derik / Malikiyah), North and East Syria, celebrated the Kha Nison–Akitu 6775, the Babylonian-Assyrian New Year, with a vibrant event attended by officials and community members.

Organized by the Coordination and Consultation Committee of the Syriac–Assyrian Nationalist Parties in Syria, the celebration featured artistic performances, traditional music, and speeches highlighting the historical and cultural significance of the occasion.

In her opening remarks, Elin Korkis, a member of the Syriac Union Party (SUP), welcomed attendees and emphasized that Kha Nison–Akitu is more than a historical commemoration — it is a reaffirmation of the community’s ongoing national struggle and right to live on their ancestral land.

Hussam al-Qass, speaking on behalf of the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), stressed the importance of preserving the community’s history and identity, calling for unity and solidarity to achieve the people’s aspirations.

The event also featured a theatrical performance titled “We and Akitu” by the Ornina Troupe of the ADO, a traditional folk-dance performance, “Tesqin,” and other folkloric dances. Well-known singer Sami Murad also took part in the festivities.

Kha Nison–Akitu, celebrated annually on 1 April, is a tradition dating back thousands of years. The Syriac Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people continue to honor this ancient festival by gathering in nature and celebrating with traditional music and dance.