Selda — Baдџcan Sivas Ellerinde Sazд±m

"Sivas Ellerinde Sazım Çalınır" is one of the most powerful and enduring folk songs ( türkü ) in Turkish music, famously interpreted by the legendary Selda Bağcan . The song is a poignant cry of longing, exile, and political defiance, deeply rooted in the history of the Alevi-Bektashi tradition. Historical and Cultural Roots

The lyrics are attributed to the 16th-century poet Pir Sultan Abdal , one of the "Seven Great Poets" ( Yedi Ulu Ozan ) of Alevism. According to historical lore, the song was composed while Pir Sultan was imprisoned in Sivas by his former student, Hızır Paşa, who had risen to the rank of governor and eventually ordered the poet's execution for his political resistance. Selda BaДџcan Sivas Ellerinde SazД±m

Selda Bağcan, known for her distinctive "protest" style and blending of folk with psychedelic rock elements, brought this ancient poem to a modern audience. Her version, often appearing on albums like Özgürlük ve Demokrasiyi Çizmek , emphasizes the song's rebellious spirit. Key Lyrics and Meaning "Sivas Ellerinde Sazım Çalınır" is one of the

The chorus, "Kâtip arzuhâlim yaz yâre böyle" (Clerk, write my petition to my beloved like this), is a direct plea for the poet's suffering to be recorded and sent to his people or his spiritual guide. Sivas Ellerinde Sazım Çalınır According to historical lore, the song was composed

: The saz (a traditional string instrument) represents the poet's voice and truth. Playing the saz in "Sivas hands" ( Sivas ellerinde ) is a metaphor for the struggle between the artist's spiritual freedom and the physical confinement of the state. Selda Bağcan’s Interpretation

: The song explores the pain of separation ( hasret ), the bitterness of betrayal by a former friend, and a deep yearning for one's homeland and loved ones.