Tabasar

Tabasar refers to a group of people indigenous to the Tabasaran District in Dagestan, a republic within the Russian Federation. They are a Lezgin subgroup and are primarily known for their unique language, Tabasaran, which is one of the most complex known languages in the world due to its extensive case system, reportedly having over 40 cases. The Tabasar people have a rich cultural heritage, historically centered around agriculture, particularly viticulture and fruit cultivation, in their mountainous homeland.

Historically, the Tabasar have been known for their skilled craftsmanship, especially in carpet weaving. Their traditional dwellings are often built from stone, adapted to the rugged terrain of their region. The Tabasar community is predominantly Muslim, adhering to Sunni Islam, and their faith has played a significant role in shaping their cultural practices and social structures. While their language is still spoken, like many minority languages, it faces challenges in modern times, with younger generations sometimes shifting to Russian or other regional languages. Despite these pressures, efforts are made to preserve their distinct identity and cultural traditions.