As I head west towards Sanandaj, I arrive at a delightful and verdant region known as Huraman or Uraman. This area is primarily situated in Kurdistan and Kermanshah, with a portion extending into Iraqi Kurdistan. It is a mountainous area characterized by meandering valleys, abundant waterfalls, and dense forests along the mountainsides. After passing through various villages, I reach Oraman Takht village, recently elevated to city status. This ancient village has been inhabited for several thousand years and is home to a population of 2000 people.
The region is marked by deprivation, where hope and opportunity are scarce. Despite this, one of the pastimes cherished by the young men and boys is playing volleyball in Huraman. This sport originated in the late 1980s, was introduced by teachers and border guards in the village, and has since become an integral part of their lives. Despite the lack of proper facilities and venues, they remain undeterred in pursuing this sport. They play every day on a deserted school playground, which had to be relocated due to the risk of falling rocks. Even the challenges of retrieving the ball from the valley below and the potential danger from the mountain above fail to discourage their daily games. Volleyball serves as more than just a game; it provides them with a source of joy in their lives.
