Children in Oman are on cloud nine as their favourite Qaranqasho is back live after two years of hiatus on Sunday and houses and shopping malls are all set to welcome the tiny tots who immerse themselves in colours, goodies and foods.
Qaranqasho, a celebration for children in the Arab world, originally developed to keep the children who fast encouraged, is celebrated in the middle of the holy month of Ramadhan and is one of the most prominent customs passed down through the generations.
It aims to draw joy on the faces of children, reward them and encourage them to fast. It also achieves and enhances social communication and instills it in them.
"Usually, children of different wilayats celebrate Qaranqasho with dance and music and foods and gifts while elders refresh their acquaintances in the neighbourhood," says Sulaiman al Jardani, a social worker in Sidab.
But the tradition that has been living since times immemorial, had to be called off from the public during the pandemic years and celebrations were limited to pan-wilayats under the supervision of elders.
"Qaranqasho is an emotion that we all grew up with and we let our children experience the same to rev up the celebrations towards Eid al Fitr," adds Omeir al Balushi, an aviation employee.
It is an occasion eagerly awaited by children as well as by adults who make necessary preparations. It is a festival for children and they prepare for it several days before the event by getting themselves ready with new clothes.
Children, dressed in their best and with a great amount of joy on their faces, visit homes in groups and move through the lanes, singing folk songs related to this beautiful tradition inspired by the authentic Omani heritage. The hosts of these children welcome them with sweets and gifts and share their joy.
Yet another interpretation of the celebration according to some elders is that the celebration of Qaranqasho comes in the interest of reviving ancient Omani customs and educating children about the importance of the Omani heritage and preserving it, generation after generation.
The relevance of Qaranqasho according to scholars is that this celebration is an enhancement of societal communication along with empowering the neighbourhood relations.
"Qaranqasho aims to inculcate children with manners and values in life as they go out in groups and socialise with their friends. Not only that, these tiny tots are indirectly educated on the values of giving and sharing and caring for others through the process of Qaranqasho. Our societies are built on such strong, tacit values," Rashid al Alawi, a health professional adds. -- Photo by Intisar al Habsi
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