Haji Bektash Veli in the context of "Alevism"

Bektashism (Turkish: Bektaşîlik, Albanian: Bektashi) is a Sufi order of Islam that evolved in 13th-century western Anatolia and became widespread in the Ottoman Empire. It is named after the walī (saint) Haji Bektash Veli, with adherents called Bektashis. Origins of Haji Bektash's teachings can be traced back to the scholar Ahmad Yasawi of Turkestan. Highest title in Bektashi chain of succession is Dedebaba, followed by Halifebaba and Baba.

The Bektashi Order of Tirana is currently led by Baba Mondi, recognized as the eighth Dedebaba, whose seat is at the order’s headquarters in Tirana, Albania. However, Bektashi Order of Tirana is not recognized by Turkish Bektashis, specifying that Bektashi principles require Dedebaba to be in Anatolia, and the Albanian chain of succession never had Dedebabate.

The History of the Alevism is that of a community of Sufis of Anatolia and neighboring regions.

Kurdish Alevism (Kurdish: Rêya Heqî, lit. 'The Path of God/Truth' or Elewîtî) refers to the unique rituals, sacred place practices, mythological discourses and socio-religious organizations among Kurds who adhere to Alevism. Kurdish Alevis consider their hereditary sacred lineages as semi-deific figures, often have beliefs more rooted in nature veneration, and put more emphasis on Pir Sultan Abdal as their religious symbol, unlike Turkish Alevis who emphasize the role of Haji Bektash Veli. Some Kurdish Alevis argue that their beliefs are related to Yarsanism and Yazidism.

The Kurdish Alevi population has experienced religious and ethnic discrimination, oppression and forced assimilation which have significantly impacted their identity. Two Kurdish Alevi rebellions were crushed by Turkish forces in the 20th century; the Koçgiri rebellion in 1921 and the Dersim rebellion in 1937–1938. Kurdish Alevis were also the main victims of the Maraş massacre in 1978.