Paradoxes of Gender and Ritual in Turkish Romani: An Ethnographic Analysis

Abstract

This ethnographic study explores the complex interplay between gender roles and rituals within Turkish Romani marriage practices. The research investigates how Romani girls are socialized into womanhood, emphasizing the cultural expectations and responsibilities placed upon them from a young age. The study highlights the separation of girls from boys as they approach adolescence, signifying their preparation for future marriages. It examines the restrictions placed upon young women, including limited mobility and social interaction with men outside the family unit. Paradoxically, the study reveals how Romani women, despite their restricted social roles, play a crucial economic role in the family. They contribute significantly through various occupations like daily labor, cleaning, fortune-telling, and flower selling. However, the patriarchal structure of the family deems them subordinate, viewing them as property acquired through monetary transactions. The ability to bear sons holds significant weight, as it is seen as a defining aspect of womanhood within the Romani community. The study delves into the importance of childbirth and motherhood, emphasizing the centrality of the “puri dai” rituals, signifying a woman's commitment to upholding traditional practices. By examining these gendered rituals and expectations within Romani marriage customs, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted role of women in Turkish Romani society.