These fertility rites, deeply felt in Turkmenistan, are a legacy of the pre-Islamic world that still survives overwhelmingly despite the passage of time.

Small groups of people gather to assist and encourage young women who, after having wrapped themselves in an old military-style coat, let themselves roll down the steep slope of the hill.

Not far away, silent women parade is focused in placing small reproductions of cradles for children on the ground, made with all kinds of materials. Others decorate with colored fabrics those already deposited by gathering in prayer.

Even boys sometimes try their hand at this bizarre fertility rite that ensures numerous children for all the faithful who face the tumble and who, very often, arrive at the end bruised and injured.

You can find the full version of this report on:
OASIS – Environmental culture magazine – n. 219