Ethnic groups of Russia: Chechens

This is the third largest ethnic group in Russia! More than 1.6 million of its representatives live in the country. Chechens are most closely related to the Ingush, with whom they form the Vainakh ethnic group. ‘Vainakh’ translates from Chechen and Ingush as ‘our people’.

Until the early 19th century, Russians used a variety of terms to refer to Chechens – depending on where they lived. The modern ethnonym is most likely associated with the ancient aul (village) of Greater Chechen. Chechens themselves call themselves ‘Nokhchiy’.

Chechens have a code of honor called ‘Konakhalla’, which has evolved over many centuries. According to it, the purpose and meaning of life for a ‘konakh’ (‘worthy man’, ‘a person of honor’) is to serve his people and his homeland. He is modest in his personal life, daily routine and public affairs, while displaying restraint and composure in all situations.

One of the main dishes of Chechen cuisine is ‘zhizhig-galnash’ – meat served with dumplings dipped in garlic sauce. Also popular are thin wheat flatbreads called ‘khingalsh’, filled with sweet, boiled pumpkin and generously topped with melted butter.