Korsi: A Warm Refuge on Cold Winter Nights
As winter arrives and cold winds sweep through the streets and alleys, homes gradually take on a different atmosphere. Frost creeps along the windows, snow gently blankets the rooftops, and the quiet of the streets is broken only by the laughter of children or the crackle of burning wood.
Within this winter scene, the korsi stands as a symbol of warmth, love, and the sweet moments of life.
The korsi is not merely a heating device; it is a living reminder of kindness, family bonds, and ancient traditions. Around it, family members gather like pearls of the heart—drinking tea, sharing stories, and filling the room with laughter. Beneath the thick blanket, the soft flames blend with the warmth of human hearts, creating an atmosphere that makes the chill of winter fade away.
Children’s laughter, the gentle conversations of mothers, and the soothing stories of grandparents fill the space. The whistle of the samovar, the aroma of freshly brewed tea, and the soft rustle of blankets bring life to the home, turning it into a refuge of safety and warmth—where the heat comes not from coal or fire, but from love, presence, and shared memories.
Korsi
A korsi is essentially a small wooden table with a heat source beneath it, such as embers, coal, or a brazier. A thick, soft blanket is draped over the top, and family members sit around it to stay warm. This age-old tradition remains alive in many communities, especially in homes where the korsi’s warmth surpasses that of modern heaters or stoves.
Korsi: A Reason to Be Together
The warmth of the korsi comes not just from the fire beneath it, but from the love and connection of those gathered around it. Winter evenings are enriched by the laughter of children, the gentle chatter of mothers and grandparents, and the steam of freshly brewed tea.
In these nights, the scent of citrus peels, the aroma of tea, and the soft crackle of the samovar blend into a comforting and nostalgic experience that no modern device can replace.
Korsi and Yalda Night: The Longest Night, The Warmest Memories
On Yalda, the longest night of the year, families gather at their grandmother’s or mother’s home. Yalda without a korsi would lose its true meaning.
Around the korsi, everyone enjoys a cup of tea, plates of pomegranate and watermelon, and the soothing stories of grandparents. Poetry readings, fortune-telling, and the laughter of grandchildren fill the house with joy.
In the warmth of the korsi, hearts come closer together, and the winter chill outside loses all meaning.
Winter Activities Around the Korsi
The korsi is not only for warmth; it is the center of entertainment and family storytelling. Some beloved winter activities include:
- Grandmother’s stories: Tales of love, courage, and local legends
- Drinking tea and enjoying traditional snacks: Raisins, dried fruits, almonds, and chickpeas
- Reciting poetry and taking fortunes on Yalda night
- Family games: Tic-tac-toe, backgammon, or riddles
- Singing local songs and enjoying grandfather’s jokes
These simple yet profound moments strengthen family bonds and remind us that true happiness lies not in wealth or luxury, but in being together.
Korsi: A Heritage to Preserve
With the rise of modern lifestyles, many families no longer use the korsi. Preserving this beautiful tradition means maintaining our cultural identity and family values.
The korsi is more than an object—it is a bridge between the past and the present, connecting the warmth of hearts from the old days with today’s modern life.
The korsi symbolizes love, unity, and the sweet memories of winter. Every time a family gathers around a korsi on a cold night, they are keeping their ancient culture alive.
Let us preserve this heritage so that our children can experience the true warmth of life, not only from heaters or stoves, but from the love of family.