Qaranqasho, a revered tradition among locals and celebrated by expatriates too, is a special day on the 14th night of the holy month of Ramadhan. This year, the day will be celebrated on Wednesday evening.
On the day, children go out in groups after iftar and Maghrib prayers singing popular songs about this beautiful tradition.
“Qaranqasho is an occasion eagerly awaited by children as well as adults who make the necessary preparations. Preparations start several days prior. Children look forward to wearing new clothes on the day,” said Obaid al Khaldi, 68-year-old Muscat resident, who has seen this tradition since his childhood.
According to Khaldi, the tradition of Qaranqasho has continued since ancient times. “Our parents and grandparents took part in it and children today are still keen to participate,” he said.
Dressed in newly purchased traditional costumes and carrying baskets, groups of children excitedly visited homes in their neighbourhood on Saturday evening. Adults greeted them with sweets, nuts and money that brought smiles to the faces of the children. Appreciating their generosity, the children sang special songs of Qaranqasho.
“The tradition encourages social communication. It also helps children learn proper conduct and etiquette as they go out and socialise with their peers,” said Shaikha al Touqi, a resident of Al Amerat.
"During the outing, each group has a leader who assigns roles to members and decides the group’s route etc," she said.
Unlike the last two years when Qaranqasho was limited to the period between iftar and Taraweeh prayers, owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year the day will be celebrated throughout the country in all households continuing until midnight.
Many of the Sultanate of Oman’s governorates celebrate Qaranqasho – the most common name for the event. In some others, including some GCC countries, it is called Garge’an.
Qaranqasho is a revered tradition among locals and is celebrated by expatriates too. Seeing their enthusiasm, many parents join the children in the fun too.
On the day, gifts to children vary according to their socio-economic status and wishes. Houses compete with one another to give the best to the children, who are delighted to show their parents the gifts they receive in this beautiful Ramadhan ceremony.
Earlier, Qaranqasho was limited to money and dates, but now the gifts include candy, nuts and small games, in addition to money.
Social institutions, associations and commercial centres have also started participating in the revival of Qaranqasho by hosting the event and contributing to make children and participants happy.
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