Kukers are in the municipality of Pavel Banya are called “Old Men”. The ‘surat’ mask is made of goat skin and is decorated with ribbons, flowers, and embroidery. The most desirable colors of goat skin for the masks are thw reddish-brown hides that resemble a fiery sunset. The mask depicts the face of an old man with a white beard, mustache and eyebrows. It must be scary to frighten off the evil energies from the village. Many years ago a cross was added to the top of the surat, wrapped in white cloth and intricate cheshire and foliage. Later on, a bride doll begins to appear. The bride has her arms outstretched, resembling a Christian cross. She is a symbol of fertility and the birth of a new pure life.
The costume consists of a waistcoat, military breeches, a belt, tservuli, and socks pulled high with flowers tucked into the knit. The ribbons on the arms symbolize roses, because the Old Men are from the Rose Valley of Bulgaria. Their large sets of bells produce a harmonious ring that helps drive away negative energies. They carry a wooden saber which is decorated with colorful cloths or ribbons and is engraved. The old men perform a dance and “shave” with the saber to bring good health.
