Kumyks

Kumyks are a Turkic-speaking ethnic group native to the North Caucasus, primarily concentrated in Dagestan, Russia. They are one of Dagestan's indigenous populations and are also found in neighboring regions and in diaspora communities abroad.

The Kumyk language, part of the Kipchak (Northwestern) branch of Turkic languages, is traditionally spoken by Kumyk communities. Russian is widely spoken as well, and Kumyk is taught in some schools and used in local media and culture.

History and religion: Kumyks emerged as a distinct community in the medieval Caucasus in the Derbent region, arising from Turkic-speaking settlers who mixed with local populations. Islam reached the region early in the history of Dagestan, and today Kumyks are predominantly Sunni Muslims, largely following the Shafi'i school with some Sufi influence.

Culture and demographics: Kumyks have distinctive folk traditions, including music, crafts, and dress, and share many cultural practices with other Dagestani peoples. Most Kumyks live in Dagestan, with smaller communities in other parts of Russia; there is also a diaspora in Turkey and other countries of the former Soviet Union. They are recognized as a distinct ethnic group within Russia, and cultural organizations exist to preserve language and heritage.