According to ethnographic sources, "Yallı" is considered a ritual dance of ancient Azerbaijani tribes. The dance reflects not only heroic motifs but also the spirit, strength, and unity of ancient tribes.
The origin and age of the "Yallı" folk dance have not been precisely determined. Its earliest and most widespread depiction is found in the rock carvings of Gobustan and Gamiqaya, and later in Nizami Ganjavi’s poem Khosrow and Shirin.
Similar dances to "Yallı" exist among other nations. However, "Yallı" is regarded as part of the Turkish peoples' dance system. Under this name, dozens of independent dances have been gathered, and they are divided into three categories: purely musical, musical and vocal (with singing), and the (non-musical) "dil yallıları" (language-based dances). The "dil yallıları" are performed without music. This type of "Yallı" is considered the most ancient form, as these were dances thought of before musical instruments were invented.
"Yallı" dances symbolize celebrations of primitive humans after a successful hunt around a fire. The procession of walking in a line during a hunt is also interpreted symbolically. Therefore, they were called "Yallı." According to legend, this dance form originated from early humans’ desire to fly. When the wind blew, they would ascend to the mountain top, hold hands, and symbolically prepare for flight. The term "Yelli" is related to this. However, since both versions are less likely to be true, the name "Yallı" is considered more accurate. It conveys the meaning of "in line" or "standing together."
Although "Yallı" dances are preserved in all regions of our republic, they are especially widespread in the Nakhchivan territories, including Sharur. It is said that there are 20 different types of "Yallı" in Sharur, whereas there used to be nearly a hundred: "Çolağı," "Üçaddım," "Qaz-qazı," "Köçəri," "İkiayaq," "Qaleyi," "Çöp-çöpü," and others.
AzEns.org.az/ Jalya Orujeva