Raghs-e Razmi (Martial Dance)

Due to their residence in the border region of Iran and the unique geographical conditions, the people of the Sistan and Baluchestan region have always been defending the borders of Iran throughout history, as mentioned in the Shahnameh mythology. In the past, the word "Raghs" (dance) was prevalent in Sistan as a form of local sport. However, since the usage of this word did not have a positive connotation for the people, over time, it has been replaced by the term "Choob Bazi" (stick play), which is a combination of religion, belief, and action. Thus, besides bringing people together in various ceremonies, Choob Bazi also had a military function and is considered a portrayal of people's role in the battlefield and a symbol of Sistan's historical background.

Types of Dances in This Region

The traditional dances of Sistan have a history of over a thousand years and, in addition to their performative aspect, they have their own specific functions that reflect the identity of the people of the region. These dances are accompanied by instruments such as the Santur, Gheychak, Chongir, Dohol, and other traditional instruments. Dance in Sistan is divided into two categories: "Raghse Chap" (women's dance), which involves rhythmic stomping and specific beats, and "Shamshir or Choob – that is sword and stick- Dance" (men's dance). In the past, these types of dances were performed by groups of men and women. In addition to these, men's dance in Sistan is further divided into "Tak Choob" (single stick) and "Do Choob" (double stick) dances. In the Do Choob dance, two people perform with two sticks, while in the Tak Choob dance, a circular formation of dancers with a single stick in hand engage in group dancing, while the surrounding crowd encourages the dancers. Shamshir Dance is one of the most authentic dances of Sistan in the southeast of Iran, and Choob Dance is a well-known and popular dance among the people of the Sistan region. What is now known as "Choob Bazi" (stick play) in Sistani dance is a continuation of the Shamshir Dance, which ancient Sistani people used to perform to maintain the readiness of their warriors during peacetime. Currently, the local dances of stick and sword are performed in most Sistani ceremonies on various occasions such as weddings, festivals, and so on. 

The Philosophy of Sistani Dance

There are hidden secrets and meanings behind each stage of Shamshir Dance. Shamshir Dance, which begins with a type of mystical dance and Sama' (whirling), essentially embodies the rotation around the axis of existence, as described in the philosophy of Sama' dances. The hands raised towards the sky and the regular and organized rotations each carry their own specific meanings. The ritualistic sword dance in Sistan has a distinctly defensive aspect and depicts the story of two warriors facing each other. When one of the combatants falls to the ground, the other invites them to rise and gives them an opportunity to stand up. This gesture is reminiscent of the bravery of Rostam (a legendary hero in Iranian mythology), who awakened his sleeping enemy before engaging in battle. When one of them is defeated, a trumpet is played and music is performed for the victorious person. The rhythmic movements, the circle of dancers, and the circular rotations (symbolizing fertility and the earth) act as a call to action and demonstrate a sense of unity among individuals in society.

All elements of Choob Bazi, such as costumes, colors, swords, sticks, etc., have been shaped in accordance with the culture of Sistan. There is a mutual relationship between the neck shawl (known as "langoteh" in Sistani dialect) and the manner of fully covering the head and nose with it. In fact, this covering is intended to protect against dust, sand, and the winds known as "Sad-o-Bist Rooze" (one hundred and twenty days) in Sistan from entering the mouth and nose. The loose-fitting garments, the white color, and their material are perfectly in harmony and symmetry with the desert climate, evoking a sense of joy among the people. The belt present in the traditional costume of Sistani stick and sword dance also symbolizes preparedness for unexpected circumstances, considering Sistan's historical background in dealing with foreign invasions. This dance holds great mystical and religious significance and played the same role in the beliefs of early communities that prayer plays in advanced cultures. The wall paintings found in the Khwaja Mountain in Sistan and Baluchestan province, dating back to the Parthian and Sassanian eras, vividly depict the traditions of music, banquets, sword dance, and warfare in that region of Iran during that time.