What is Gargee’an? How Is It Celebrated in Bahrain?
The cherished tradition takes place annually during the holy month and gives children an excuse to demand treats from their family, friends and neighbours
If you heard children giggling and running across alleyways in cultural attire on the 15th day of Ramadan, you know that they were taking part in Gargee’an festivities – a tradition that takes place in Bahrain and other parts of the region to reward children for fasting.
What is Gargee’an?
Also known as Gargee’an or Gergaoon, the tradition sees youngsters dress in cultural attire as they go knocking from door to door, demanding sweet treats from friends and families in the neighborhood — their reward for fasting during the holy month.
In the past kids would receive wheat, dates, rice, and sugar; nowadays, youngsters indulge in chocolate, nuts, and baked goods.
Currently, the festivities usually take place at the Muharraq area’s traditional market and Heritage Village, as well as Manama souq in Bahrain. Members of the community come together on the streets and children sing traditional songs while exploring the neighbourhood, on the night of the 15th of Ramadan, which was marked on March 25 this year.
Little girls wear brightly coloured jalabiyas with embellished embroidery, gold jewellery and headpieces to match. Boys show off their crisp, white thobes.
Several family destinations such as malls and outdoor cafes have also started celebrating the tradition with Ramadan-themed décor, cultural performances, puppet shows, and serving Arabic coffee and luqaimat.
What Does Gargee’an Mean?
The word Gargee’an has two meanings in Arabic: “knocking on the door” or “a mixture of sweets and nuts.” The term refers to the distribution of sweet treats but is widely used to refer to the celebration itself.
The tradition is also celebrated in different parts of the Arab world such as the UAE, Kuwait, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia and is known by other names. For example, it’s known as Haq Al Laila in the Emirates and it is instead celebrated on the 15th night of Sha’ban in the Islamic calendar, symbolising the welcoming of Ramadan.
It’s called Majeena or Garangao in Iraq, Garangao or Garangaou in Qatar, Karkee’aan or Qariqaan in Saudi Arabia, Gargee’aan or Girgian in Kuwait, Ahwaz, Qaranqashoh, At-Tablah or Qarnakosh in Oman. In Qatif, a city in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, Gargee’an is known as Nasfa, translating to “middle,” as it is celebrated in the middle of the holy month.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@mustafaa7