Mosul Observes Ramadan with Blend of Ancient Traditions and Modern Life

Mosul Celebrates Ramadan with Revival of Traditions

The Iraqi city of Mosul has regained its spiritual and cultural vibrancy as the Muslim holy month of Ramadan began last week. The city’s residents have come together to revive longstanding customs, including traditional songs, prayers, and storytelling.

On the first night of Ramadan, children in traditional clothing sang traditional Ramadan songs in the old neighborhoods. This gathering is said to revitalize Mosuli and Iraqi heritage and teach values of sharing and celebrating the holy month.

Tarawih prayers, performed at night during Ramadan, have returned to the Grand al-Nuri Mosque and its iconic leaning minaret, al-Hadba, for the first time in nearly nine years. The mosque’s restoration and reopening reflects its spiritual and historical importance.

Traditional storytellers, known as hakawati, have also re-emerged during Ramadan evenings, recounting stories from Mosul’s past. Abeer al-Ghanem, a 52-year-old storyteller, explained that the hakawati represents a link between the past and the present, narrating stories about life in Mosul during the holy month of Ramadan.

Traditional games, such as siniya, remain a key part of the Ramadan atmosphere. Fahad Mohammed Kashmoula, a 55-year-old resident, said that playing this game since the 1980s creates a warm and joyful atmosphere among participants.

Mosul’s markets, particularly the historic Bab al-Saray, come alive during Ramadan as residents flock to buy seasonal staples, including dates. Date sales increase significantly during Ramadan, especially in this market, with Khalil Mahmoud, a 65-year-old date seller, noting that dates provide a quick source of energy for those fasting.

Humanitarian initiatives also abound during Ramadan, including paying off debts, distributing food baskets, setting up free iftar meals, and promoting social solidarity. These efforts reflect the city’s growing humanitarian spirit.

Source: Al Jazeera