Nawras celebrates Qaranqasho and captures the spirit of Ramadan

Mobilk - A grand celebration with thousands of children and their families was held by Nawras at Muscat Grand Mall, to mark Qaranqasho. The event was held on Saturday evening between 9pm and 11:30pm, which saw over 2,000 children  and their families entering a purpose-build ‘village’ where children could collect a host of traditional Omani sweets, as well as enjoying activities such as face painting. 

The event was held as part of the 10th annual Goodwill Journey, themed ‘digital and family’, in support of the families fasting during Ramadan and to join in the spirit of sharing and giving. 

What is Qaranqasho?

On the 14th day of Ramadan, Qaranqasho is celebrated to mark the middle of the blessed month. This spirited and beautiful social event is also one of the traditional Omani heritage activities that children celebrate by going around their local villages singing special rhythms for sweets. 

The song sung by children is: “Qaranqasho yo nas, atoni shwayat halwa” (Hey people, Qaranqasho time, give us some sweets, please). The singing continues with: “doos doos fi almandoos, hara hara fi a’sahara” in an ongoing chant (asking for candy). Neighbours welcome them with open arms and give them sweets or money, for which the children sing another song praising them. For many Arabs this is a nostalgic part of their own childhood and the tradition continues as they mark the occasion with children in their families and communities across Oman.

Follow the Goodwill Journey online

Daily updates from the Nawras Goodwill Journey 10 are available through official Nawras social media platforms. Take a look at the latest video diaries on the Nawras YouTube Channel, www.youtube.com/Nawras1500, and images on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Nawras. Nawras volunteers are also tweeting live on location at www.twitter.com/nawras_oman with the dedicated hashtag #RamadanJourney throughout the tour. The Nawras website is also tracking the Journey and volunteers live by GPS at www.nawras.om.