Wild Creatures - Kooshtak
Fiona Wright • June 29, 2025
Wild Creatures - Kooshtak

Aren’t these guys wild?
They're called Kooshtak, and they’re shaped like both real and fantasy animals.
These little creatures are traditionally part of the Spring Equinox rituals, deeply rooted in folk beliefs and magic. Especially popular with Uzbeks and Tajiks, they’re closely tied to the celebration of Navruz, the Eastern New Year.
According to ancient tradition, their sound was believed to scare away an evil dragon - symbolizing winter. Winter in Uzbekistan- you really need all the help you can get to bring on the warmth!
Some also thought that their whistle could summon the wind and bring the rain needed to help the crops grow.
The best part? Very few people still make them these days, but we happen to know someone who does - and she’s invited us to visit!
Big win for the ceramics tour!