An official distributing Garangao gifts to children on Shakespeare Street in Katara yesterday.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar residents rejoiced yesterday as they celebrated Garangao, a beloved tradition marking the halfway point of Ramadan, particularly cherished by young children.
Various prominent locations across the country, including the Cultural Village Foundation, Katara, Souq Waqif, Old Doha Port, Expo 2023 Doha, Darb Al Saai, Lusail Boulevard, and Msheireb Downtown Doh among others, witnessed thousands of children and youngsters partake in this cherished festivity.
Beyond these landmarks, numerous municipalities, public and private organisations, and schools joined hands to embrace this annual Gulf celebration, igniting excitement for the final two weeks of fasting.
Garangao, one of Ramadan’s most cherished customs for young children, holds a special place in Qatari and Gulf heritage.
A special day for children, they were treated with goodies and engaged in educational and creative activities.
Katara, the Cultural Village, resonated with laughter and joy as hundreds of children, accompanied by their parents, revelled in Garangao festivities. In addition to the customary distribution of treats and nuts, the village organised an array of engaging activities to immerse children in the spirit of Garangao.
Similarly, Msheireb Downtown Doha and Old Doha Port hosted lively events, including a Fashion Show and Best Garangao Outfit competition, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Riza Sotomango, a mother of four, expressed delight as her children, Tristan, Laurice, Shana, and their cousin Pierre (pictured above), enthusiastically participated in this year’s Garangao festivities.
“Every year, they eagerly anticipate this tradition, especially Shana and Laurice, my two youngest, for the treats they receive,” she remarked.
Ethan, 6 years old, dressed in a Qatari traditional attire during Garangao
Highlighting the significance of reintroducing and nurturing this tradition annually, regardless of religious affiliation, Sotomango stressed its educational value for the youth.
Alia, a parent from India, shared her excitement as her daughter participated in the Best Garangao Outfit competition at Msheireb. Adorned in a traditional Qatari dress, complete with a headdress and goodie pouch, her daughter eagerly embraced the opportunity to showcase her attire on the runway. “It’s so nice that Msheireb is doing this event again, last year we were just watching the competition and fashion show but now my daughter, Aamina, said she wanted to join so here we are now. She was really excited.”
Originating from the term “gara,” signifying the sound produced when two objects collide, the festival’s roots trace back to the tradition of pearl diving. Qatar Tourism noted that Garangao occurs every 14th day of Ramadan, inviting children to don their traditional attire and knock on neighbours’ doors to receive sweets and nuts.
The whole community welcomes the kids with treats like sweets and nuts. On this night, Qatari kids and all their international friends stay out until late collecting treats in traditional cotton bags, while singing a traditional song.
