Gilak

Gilak, also known as Gilaki, refers to an Iranian ethnic group native to Gilan Province on the northern coast of Iran along the Caspian Sea. They form the largest ethnic community in the province and maintain a distinct linguistic and cultural tradition alongside neighboring Caspian groups.

Language: Gilaki is a Northwestern Iranian language spoken by the Gilak. It has several regional dialects and is closely related to Mazandarani; together they belong to the Caspian group of Northwestern Iranian languages. Gilaki is typically written using the Persian script, and its vocabulary includes influences from Persian as well as borrowings from Caucasian and Turkish languages through centuries of contact.

Geography and demographics: Most Gilaki speakers reside in Gilan Province, with smaller communities in Tehran, Qazvin, and other major cities. Population figures vary by source, but the language is spoken by a substantial portion of northern Iran, with estimates placing speakers in the low millions.

Culture and economy: Gilaki culture reflects the Caspian coastal environment. The region is known for tea cultivation, especially around Lahijan, and for rice farming. Traditional cuisine emphasizes seafood from the Caspian and regional herbs, while music and crafts show distinctive Caspian influences.

History and identity: The Gilak have inhabited the southern Caspian littoral for centuries and have contributed to the broader history of northern Iran within successive empires. Today they maintain distinct customs, dress, and folklore while sharing Iran's national institutions.