Hace 36 años que va a festivales con sus camellos para preservar la cultura Yörük

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

63-year-old camel breeder Raşit Durmaz from Denizli has been participating in festivals all over Turkey for 36 years to preserve the Yörük culture with his camels. Raşit Durmaz, who also runs a camel farm in Sığma Village, a district of Sarayköy, produces sacrificial camels, sightseeing camels, and camel milk.

Raşit Durmaz from Sarayköy district of Denizli mentioned that they attend festivals in all provinces of Turkey, offering camel rides and pony rides to festival attendees in designated areas. He also stated that in the summer season, apart from festivals, he serves tourists with his camels in Antalya and its coasts. Durmaz said, ‘For years, I have been producing sightseeing camels, sacrificial camels, and camel milk in one of the few camel farms in Turkey. In the summer months, I take tourists around Antalya with my camels. I also participate in festivals with my camels. So far, I have attended festivals held in many provinces of Turkey. I make an effort to introduce the Yörük culture and offer people a different journey with camels. Loading camels from the farm onto large vehicles and taking them to different parts of Turkey is not an easy task.’

Also Producing Camel Milk
Describing that he also produces camel milk on his farm, Durmaz said, ‘A female camel breastfeeds its calf for 11 months. Camel milk is less fatty than cow’s milk, closer to breast milk, and particularly rich in vitamin C. An average of 2 liters of milk is milked from a camel breastfeeding its calf per day. After pasteurizing the camel milk, I deliver it to the buyer in a special package by cargo. Camel milk prevents diabetes. It leads to positive developments especially in individuals undergoing type 1 diabetes treatment. It is possible to meet the daily requirement of vitamin B1 with a glass of camel milk. It contains more protein compared to other milks. Therefore, it strengthens the immune system and is frequently preferred by athletes. Consuming camel milk for strong bones is recommended for child development. It positively affects the circulatory system as it contains high levels of iron. Being rich in healthy fats, it is heart-friendly. It accelerates metabolism and 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.’