For 36 years, he has been going to festivals with his camels to preserve Yoruk culture

Raşit Durmaz, who also owns a camel farm in Sığma Village, a district of Denizli’s Sarayköy, has been attending festivals all around Turkey for 36 years to preserve the Yörük culture with his camels.

In Denizli, 63-year-old camel breeder Raşit Durmaz has been attending festivals all around Turkey for 36 years to preserve the Yörük culture with his camels. Raşit Durmaz, who also owns a camel farm in Sığma Village, a district of Sarayköy, engages in the production of sacrificial camels, tourist camels, and camel milk.

Raşit Durmaz from Sarayköy district of Denizli mentioned that they participate in festivals in all provinces of Turkey, offering camel rides and pony rides within specific areas to festival attendees. He also stated that apart from festivals, during the summer season, he serves tourists with his camels in Antalya and along the coasts. Durmaz said, ‘For years, I have been producing tourist camels, sacrificial camels, and camel milk in one of the few camel farms in Turkey. During the summer months, I take tourists on camel rides in Antalya. I also participate with my camels in festivals. So far, I have attended festivals organized in many provinces of Turkey. I strive to introduce the Yörük culture and provide people with a different experience by traveling with camels. Loading the camels from the farm onto large vehicles and transporting them to different parts of Turkey is not an easy task.’

Producing Camel Milk
In addition to camels, Durmaz explained that he also produces camel milk on his farm. He said, ‘A female camel nurses her calf for 11 months. Camel milk is less fatty than cow’s milk, similar to breast milk, and particularly rich in vitamin C. An average of 2 liters of milk is obtained daily from a nursing camel. After pasteurizing the camel milk, I deliver it to the buyer in a special package via cargo. Camel milk prevents diabetes and has positive effects, especially in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Consuming a glass of camel milk can meet the daily need for vitamin B1. It contains more protein compared to other milks. Hence, it strengthens the immune system and is a popular choice among athletes. Consuming camel milk is recommended for strong bones in children’s development. It positively affects the circulatory system due to its high iron content. It is heart-friendly due to the healthy fats it contains. It accelerates metabolism, balances blood pressure with its phosphorus and potassium content. It contains 10 times more iron and 3 times more vitamin C than cow’s milk. It is highly effective in digestive and stomach problems.’