(MENAFN- The Peninsula) joelyn baluyut |
The Peninsula
Doha: Souq Waqif traditional market and the Cultural Village Katara have emerged to be two of the most sought-after destinations during this holy month of Ramadan.
The Peninsula spoke with some locals and shop managers in the two locations, who have seen a surge in people congregating in these location while enjoying the Ramadan spirit.
Both Souq Waqif and Katara have lined up a host of public activities for the whole month of Ramadan.
Since the start of the holy month, Souq Waqif has been holding a Ramadan cannon fire, to announce the time to end the day-long fast. The activity is a major hit with locals and tourists alike.
Following that, free food and presents for kids are distributed every day. A large number of people also break their fast at the traditional marketplace which is decked out for the holy month, with lanterns and strings of lights.
Islam, a resident of the country for more than eight years, remarked that this Ramadan, visiting Souq Waqif is particularly memorable.“Coming here with my family and friends and meeting people this blessed month is a great experience; there's a different atmosphere here, I sense togetherness, and it appears we're back in the pre-COVID-19 times.”
Shop owners told The Peninsula they have seen an increase in their sales, some saying they were earning at least QR5,000 a day.
“We have many visitors come here to buy antique Qatari products because they are intrigued and want to understand more the culture of this country,” said Safayar of AlDar Art and Antiques.“They typically purchase bags with Qatar inscribed on them."
He continued:“Surprisingly, we have more customers this Ramadan than we had before the pandemic, which means good business for us.”
Anulhak of Mohd. Ahmed Mohd. Al Emadi garment shop said that as the Garangao draws near, the demand for Garangao outfit is on the rise.“We have the traditional Garangao outfit for girls, from two to 10 years old. It comes with a dress and a pouch where they put the goodies that they will collect.”
Garangao is one of the most cherished Ramadan customs for children. On the Garangao evening, they go from house to house collecting sweets from their neighbours.
Samantha from Jordan, who was buying a Garangao outfit for her four-year old daughter, said that a visit to Souq Waqif offers a new learning of the Qatari culture.“Whether it's Ramadan or not, Souq Waqif is still our number one go-to place. There is so much to learn every time we come here.”
Meanwhile, to mark the holy month of Ramadan, the Cultural Village Foundation, Katara, has organised 23 events, ranging from sports to educational lectures to art workshops.
Katara said it is determined to reinforce their presence in their Ramadan festivities. Iftar cannon and Al Mashar are among the most prominent activities. The village has witnessed a significant increase in tourists since last week.
Among the thousands of visitors at Katara is Lakshmi and her family who have visited the area twice.“We have witnessed the Ramadan Cannon, saw Al Mashar, a volleyball competition, and my three kids are participating in the art workshops.”
“Engaging the public through different government initiatives is crucial for a harmonious relationship. These free workshops and seminars should be attended by all because we get to learn the culture of our second home, and it also enhances our skills be it on the art or educational aspect,” she added.
Marivic, who has been in the country for seven years, said:“Katara has scaled up on its cultural offerings and has remained true to its objective of being a world leader in multi-cultural activities. The community meeting is especially remarkable since it allows us to meet new people and develop friendships.”