Picture: Qatar News Agency
Doha: The people of Qatar have a tradition of holding Ramadan “Ghabga” throughout the holy month, particularly following the Taraweeh prayer.
It is primarily an occasion where families and friends group in Majlis and homes around communal tables, surrounded by an atmosphere of warmth and mutual affection.
Annually held by the people of Qatar, this occasion is part of social mores passed down through generations, fostering strong social ties, and albeit its evolution, it has been cherished, with all eager to attend, whether held in Majlis or elsewhere.
While traditional dishes predominated in the past, but today the table includes both popular and diverse foods, along with a cornucopia of traditional sweets.
Researcher in folklore Salah Gharib, highlighted that Ghabga is one of the most inveterate traditions in the State of Qatar that draws families and friends in a superb spiritual atmosphere after Taraweeh, making it one of the profound mores manifesting the social values of the people of Qatar, thereby strengthening familial bonds and fostering communication across generations.
This is one of the ancient traditions that prevails among the people of Qatar, who have been gathering after a long day of fasting and work, featuring festive atmospheres in homes, Majlis, and hotels, with decorations that evoke an authentic Ramadan spirit, alongside conversations, memories, and the revival of traditional Ramadan customs, highlighted Gharib. He affirmed that traditional dishes are part and parcel of Ghabga which primarily features a wide range of domestic dishes, including sweets, meat, chicken, as well as Arabic coffee and Ramadan juices, highlighting that through time Ghabga has evolved to be held outdoors, or even in hotels and luxurious restaurants.
Gharib noted the richness of Qatari heritage that blends with global flavours, creating an opportunity for families and friends to gather in an elegant setting.
