Tribune News Network
Doha
Al Faleh Educational Holding celebrated Garangao at Doha Academy School on April 6. The school was beautifully decorated to mark the festive occasion. With a traditional Ramadan tent and majlis, a variety of activities, including Qatari dance performances, contests, making of henna designs, instant photography, lantern making and sweet distribution, were organised as part of the celebration.
Garangao is a tradition that is uniquely celebrated in Qatar and the wider Gulf region, where children dress up in beautiful, traditional clothes and visit neighbours, friends and family who present them with sweets.
The festival of Garangao, officially celebrated on the 14th evening of the Holy Month of Ramadan, marks the halfway point for children who have fasted for the past two weeks, perhaps for the first time in their lives. It encourages them to continue fasting until the end of the month.
The students and staff of Doha Academy School were dressed in their finest clothes, and students brought their ‘Garangao bags’ to have sweets put in. Parents were also invited to attend and take pictures with their children. Humzah, a deputy within the Primary team, supported in organising the event and explained how important it was, and that “the community as a whole is involved in recognising and celebrating the Qatari traditions related to such an important Islamic month of the year.”
Edward Cooper, principal of Doha Academy Schools, stated, “Garangao is a special time of the year for students – an opportunity for them to focus on the meaning of Ramadan as well as a form of encouragement to continue fasting where appropriate.”
Everyone had a wonderful time celebrating Garangao and all students received sweets to enjoy at home that evening.
Dr Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh Al Thani, founder and chairperson of Al Faleh Educational Holding QPSC, commented, “In celebrating Garangao, we are encouraging our students to engage fully in Ramadan. As always, we are committed to supporting the communities in which we operate, and promoting our Qatari folklore. We are pleased to offer the students and the whole community the opportunity to celebrate Garangao.”
