Ramadan, the most sacred month in Islam, is monitored by millions around the world through fasting, prayer and thinking. While its basic spiritual importance remains the same, cultures around the world have developed unique traditions that add a local flavor to the celebration. Among the roller lanterns in Egypt to Ramda's musicians in Türkiye, and vibrant Ngabuburit in Indonesia, each country of Ramadan celebrates its own way.
In Singapore (and Malaysia), we have vibrant Ramadan bazaars with markets that sell street food such as Mortabak, Persique's days, Koy-Mouh, while maintaining the traditional “Campong Spirit”. this year , Ramadan in Singapore It is expected to start on March 2 and end on March 30.
These habits not only enhance the festive atmosphere, but also reflect the rich diversity of Islamic societies around the world. Here are 5 unique Ramadan traditions from all over the world:
Difficult lanterns (Egypt)
In Egypt, winding lanterns are a symbol of Ramadan as the streets, homes and mosques are decorated with this colorful lighting. This tradition returns to Fatima's era when people welcomed the caliph with lanterns during Ramadan. Made of metal and colored glass, it comes in many shapes and sizes, and was originally used to hold candles, oil and witness.
In Cairo and other Egyptian cities, the markets are filled with manufacturer, and some are handcrafted using the traditional technologies that have been passed for generations. Many children receive small lanterns as gifts and enjoy singing Ramadan songs while carrying throughout the neighborhood.
Mesharati (Middle East and North Africa)
In countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Palestine and Morocco, Misaharati (the drama or the town) walks in the streets before dawn, and calls people to wake up for the sake , Or even personal waking calls. At the end of the month, he often goes from the door to the door as he receives gifts or small donations as a symbol of appreciation for his service.
This tradition dates back to the early Islamic era, when there were no hours or warning devices, and societies rely on the voice of mesharati to ensure their eating before Fajr (Fajr prayer). In Morocco, Gilaaba wears a traditional (long robe) and carries a lantern, symbolizing light and guidelines. Although modern technology has made this practice less necessary, it remains a dear cultural and spiritual tradition in rural areas and historical regions.
Drummers Ramadan (Türkiye)
In Türkiye, a tradition of the centuries of drummers of Ramadan (Ramadan Davulkoso) see the streets before dawn, overcoming the great drums to wake people for Swahur. The history of this practice dates back to the Ottoman era, when drummers played a decisive role in ensuring that families are not missing a pre -dawn meal.
They wear traditional Ottoman clothes, often wear a vicious and jacket, these drums move from the street to the street, and sometimes they repeat folk songs or religious verses while hitting a rhythmic davul (dual -head drum). In many areas, they are still very respectful, and at the end of Ramadan, they go from the door to the door who receive small tips or gifts as a symbol of gratitude for their service. Last year, about 3000 selected (In the sense of “chosen” in Arabic, in reference to a person representing a local society), he walked across the 1000 Istanbul neighborhood, and met old poems before dawn.
Ngabuburit (Indonesia)
Ngabuburit is the tradition of Ramadan loved in Indonesia, in reference to the time spent waiting for breakfast (breaking fast) late in the afternoon. The term comes from an Indian language, and it originally means “time long before sunset.” The history of practice dates back to centuries, when people gather in western Java near rivers or open relaxation fields before Morocco.
Today, the Indonesians Ngabuburit notice in different ways. Many visit the Ramadan bazaars, where they buy the traditional snacks of Iftar. Others spend time in gardens, enjoy light sports, engage in religious activities, or organize charitable events. Ngabuburit is not only about time – it is a social and spiritual experience, and the collection of families, friends and societies together in the warm expectation of IFTAR. The essence of Ngabuburit is still deeply rooted in the Indonesian culture of Ramadan.
Gargee'an (Gulf Countries)
Gargee'an is a tradition in the middle of Ramadan celebrated in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, usually on the fifteenth night of Ramadan. This habit, which dates back to Halloween hoax, is similar to that children wear traditional introduction, festive songs from door to door, and receive sweets, nuts and small gifts from neighbors. The word Gargee'an has two meaning in Arabic: “knocks on the door” or “a mixture of sweets and nuts”.
Gargee'an's origins are believed to return to the early Islamic era, and over time, it has evolved to a Cultural celebration Which confirms the association of society, generosity, and joy. Today, Gargee'an is widely celebrated across the Gulf, with families and mosques and even companies that organize events with music, storytelling and traditional games. The streets are alive with colored bags of sweets, decorated baskets, and joyful children who sing the songs of well -known Gargee'an.
Ramadan is more than a month of fasting – it is a time of faith, thinking and society, enriched with a variety of traditions that differ according to different cultures. These habits, whether old or advanced, highlight the beauty of teamwork, common values of generosity, gratitude and spiritual renewal. With the continued observation of Ramadan all over the world, these traditions are a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that unites Islamic societies across continents.
