Large-scale events are being held throughout the velayats as part of the celebrations marking the Year of “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses”, which commemorates the 35th anniversary of the Motherland's independence. The regional stage of the “Gülüň owadan!” competition, held at the “Bagt köşgi” Wedding Palace in the city of Balkanabat, became another highlight of the festive program.

The competition was jointly organized by the Central Council of the Women's Union of Turkmenistan, the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan, and the Secretariat of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO. Filled with profound meaning and memorable moments, the event is held annually to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Turkmen people and their ancient traditional arts, as well as to preserve the continuity of handicraft traditions passed down from generation to generation.

The participants expressed their sincere gratitude to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero-Arkadag, recognizing them as the initiators of the country's remarkable achievements during the era of the Revival of the New Epoch of the Powerful State.

During the competition, the skilled craftswomen showcased the history and beauty of traditional Turkmen felt carpets (keche), demonstrated the techniques used in their production, and presented exquisite examples of this craft elevated to the level of art. According to the competition rules, the contestants competed in producing felt items of specified dimensions within a set time limit. In addition, the creative program featured fascinating information, legends, folk beliefs, and poems celebrating the beauty of the ornamental patterns of keche, which have long been a cherished adornment of Turkmen homes. All of this gave the competition—transformed into a true celebration—a special depth, significance, and festive atmosphere.

At the conclusion of the competition, the team of craftswomen from the city of Balkanabat won the Grand Prix, earning the right to compete in the national stage of the contest. The team from the Bereket etrap claimed first place, the Esenguly etrap took second place, and the Gyzylarbat etrap finished in third place.

Following the competition, the organizers ceremonially presented valuable prizes to the winners and runners-up.