“It’s 2025. In the heart of Edirne, a 664-year-old tradition still stands strong: Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling. But this is more than just a sports event. It’s a spirit, a collective memory, and a living bond between a people and their history.“
“Yet, every summer the same cycle seems to repeat —Kırkpınar (festival time) comes, we talk for a few days, and then silence… until the next year.”
This piece, originally penned by Mehmet Çoğ and reshaped here with his permission, invites a deeper reflection—not to complain, but to critically engage with the tradition we all hold dear.
“Aga or Authority?”
(the term “ağa” is commonly used among the public to refer to individuals who derive their power from wealth, or in some cases, to those who own large areas of land or hold the position of a tribal leader. In this case he is the person who sponspors/funds Kırkpınar festival)
“One question keeps surfacing: What is the true role of the “Kırkpınar Aga”?
Last year’s “notable gentleman” made headlines with a proposal to create a “separate tribune for women.” After backlash, he withdrew the idea—but the tone was clear: a sense of ownership rather than stewardship.
Let’s be honest: Being an Aga isn’t about paying the highest bid. It’s about responsibility, cultural sensitivity, and leaving a lasting impact. Names come and go, but legacies remain. Few Agas are remembered, because what matters at Kırkpınar is not the show, but the substance.
Representation, Not Possession
Kırkpınar is not someone’s personal stage—it’s a shared heritage.
While the municipality organizes it with great effort, and the Wrestling Federation contributes with regulations, behind the scenes things don’t always flow smoothly. Personal egos often overshadow collective purpose.
Take a recent example: At a Kırkpınar panel, the Aga simply left mid-session. Why? The audience was too small. But the point of such events isn’t the crowd—it’s the content, the dialogue, the vision. If this is the mindset, how can any meaningful future be built?
“40 Projects” – Still Waiting…
We were promised “40 projects” for Kırkpınar last year. Months have passed. Still no update. What are these projects? What’s the timeline? How will they be implemented?
Too many questions, too few answers.
This is exactly why the position of Aga must be institutionalized. We need written, transparent roles and expectations. Each year’s Aga can’t just improvise a vision. This isn’t sustainable.
Time for a Kırkpınar Constitution
Perhaps the time has come to draft a Kırkpınar Constitution. Local historians, cultural experts, and organizers should come together to outline what this tradition needs in the 21st century. No more makeshift festival grounds. Maybe a construction firm will finally come forward and commit to modernizing the space—with respect for its roots.
A Tradition That Belongs to the Future, Too
Kırkpınar isn’t just about the past. It should speak to the future. The drum and the hammer must be in the same hand—that is, decisions and execution must be coordinated. Not just ceremonial speeches, but genuine engagement and community participation.
Some time ago, I wrote about my dream for Kırkpınar (Festivals). If you’re curious, take a look on this link Read More Here
But unfortunately, the same old cycle plays out: the event ends, a few days of noise… then silence. This must change.
A 664-year-old tradition deserves respect, vision, and a modern approach. Kırkpınar’s future is not just in academic papers—it lives in the minds, hearts, and efforts of those who cherish it.
Let’s be worthy of this legacy. It belongs to all of us.”
Original article by Mehmet Çoğ – This post was adapted and edited with his permission, using a different tone for wider sharing.
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