Alevi Organization in the Diaspora – Derviş Cemal Ocak, Turkmen and Kurdish Talips
In this video, Pir Rıza Yağmur candidly shares the process of taking over relations with the talips of the Derviş Cemal Ocak after his transition to pirhood, as well as the responsibilities involved. His path of service, which began in Turkey, gradually extended to Europe—particularly to Germany and France. Within this trajectory, he offers comprehensive reflections on migration-driven social change, Alevi institutionalization, and the challenges and possibilities of the diaspora context.
Drawing on his personal struggles, leadership experience, and his period as Chair of the Council of Pirs, Pir Rıza Yağmur provides an authentic testimony of Alevi organization in Europe. The video also sheds light on the historical and cultural roots of the Derviş Cemal Ocak, which extend to both Turkish/Turkmen and Kurdish tribal communities, and reveals the structure of talip communities in Germany.
In the final section, the meaning, practice, and personal-emotional dimensions of Yas-ı Matem and the month of Muharrem are addressed with deep introspection.
This recording was made on 27 June 2025 at the CAN TV studios in Cologne. The interviews were conducted as part of the Alevi Encyclopedia project.
Drawing on his personal struggles, leadership experience, and his period as Chair of the Council of Pirs, Pir Rıza Yağmur provides an authentic testimony of Alevi organization in Europe. The video also sheds light on the historical and cultural roots of the Derviş Cemal Ocak, which extend to both Turkish/Turkmen and Kurdish tribal communities, and reveals the structure of talip communities in Germany.
In the final section, the meaning, practice, and personal-emotional dimensions of Yas-ı Matem and the month of Muharrem are addressed with deep introspection.
This recording was made on 27 June 2025 at the CAN TV studios in Cologne. The interviews were conducted as part of the Alevi Encyclopedia project.
Interviewer
- Ahmet Kerim Gültekin
