At Suhar Festival, the past did not arrive as a distant memory, it arrived alive, breathing and full of sound. Through the reenactment of the traditional Omani wedding, visitors were invited into a world where joy was shared, time moved gently and celebration belonged to the entire community.
Long before wedding halls and dramatic private ceremonies, the Omani wedding was a social event that unfolded over days, sometimes weeks. It was built on simplicity, cooperation and an unspoken agreement that happiness was never carried alone. From engagement rituals to marriage contracts and wedding preparations, every step reflected values that shaped Omani society which are respect, solidarity and deep family ties.
The Suhar Festival presentation recreated these moments with striking authenticity. The rhythmic beats of Al Razha and the proud chants of Al Azi filled the space, not merely as performances, but as echoes of collective memory. These traditional arts once announced joy, strengthened unity and reminded communities of their shared identity.
“As I watched the scene, I felt as if I was seeing my parents’ stories come to life”, said Aasem al Maamari, who attended the festival with his children. “We grow up hearing about weddings where everyone helped, everyone celebrated. In fact, it is everyone's wedding. This reminded us of who we are”.
One of the most touching moments was the portrayal of the bride’s preparation. Days before the wedding, she would be perfumed with sandalwood, adorned with handmade embroidered garments and surrounded by women who shared advice, laughter, and blessings. The Dehen Alarous ceremony was not just about beauty, well it was about care, belonging and emotional support.
For children, the experience became a window into a world they had never known. “I liked how everyone was together”, said 12-year-old Noora Habeeb. “The clothes and songs felt warm, like a story from my grandmother”.
Parents observed their children watching closely, asking questions and connecting emotionally. “When heritage is shown this way, children don’t just learn, it stays in their hearts”, said Zainab al Ajmi. “They understand that these traditions carry love and meaning, not just rituals”.
More than a cultural display, the Omani wedding at Suhar Festival became a gentle reminder of what once defined community life. It showed that weddings were not measured by extravagance, but by connection and not by appearance, but by participation.
In reviving this tradition, the festival did more than preserve heritage, it gave it a voice that speaks to today’s generation. In a fast-paced world, the Omani wedding stood as a quiet call to remember, to belong and to celebrate together, just as Omanis always have.
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