People shop for nuts and sweets ahead of Garangao festival at Souq Waqif. Pic: Salim Matramkot/The Peninsula
Doha: The nuts and sweets shops at Souq Waqif have witnessed a massive turnout from residents to buy gifts for children ahead of Garangao festival.
Garangao is a traditional children’s party celebrated after breaking the fast on the 14th day of Ramadan.
It is a Ramadan tradition widely celebrated by children across Qatar and the Gulf region. It is usually most enjoyed as a celebration of having fasted for half of the Holy Month. As per the tradition, children sing ‘Garangao Garangao Atona Atona, Allah Yatikom (Give us, Allah will give you), while visiting their neighbours for gifts.
A source from the Ministry of Culture and Sports said that the celebration of Garangao would be the same as last year, including a competition for the best Garangao dress, among other events that will be organised.
Asked if the Ministry will distribute sweets and nuts to children, the source said that due to the preventive measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus, there would be no distribution of treats to kids.
Meanwhile, Garangao gifts at Souq Waqif contain ten types of nuts sold at prices ranging from QR50 to more than QR200. Other Garangao gifts like wooden boxes (written on Garangao) are being sold for QR100 or less. The gifts are showcased at specially decorated places in the outlets, giving a traditional look.
To celebrate the Garangao festival, girls wear traditional gowns with embroidery and gold jewellery like earrings, necklaces, and bangles, while boys wear traditional Qatari dress ‘Thawb,’ jackets, and caps.
Last year, the Ministry of Culture and Sports celebrated the festival by deploying buses that distributed sterilised and closed Garangao gifts to children at their doorsteps using loudspeakers to air the Garangao song, wishing safety, health, and joy to all.
Garangao encourages children to learn about their traditions and customs.
