Traditional Wedding In Bhutan

Weddings in the metropolitans have parades or car for the wedding processions; full fledged band instruments such as trumpets and trombones, ferry lights all over the house which is naturally more expenses. These weddings are completely different from the traditional remote village weddings.

They are very simple for very rich in culture. A Bhutanese Wedding is much more than a simple exchange of vows and rings. It includes a number of relegious rites performed by Buddhist monks and lamas. This represents the importance of the bond between a husband and wife. Renew your vows and get blessed for a lifetime of love and happiness from the Buddhist monks and lamas.

We can make arrangements for an eleborate vow renewal blessing ceremony including most elements of the wedding ceremony or a simpler arrangement can be made which may include the exchange of khadar, silent prayer and Khadhar offering by the couple to all the Buddhas, gods and deities, and a long and happy life blessing ceremony.

To have the best of both the worlds, the wedding and vow renewal blessing ceremonies can be customized to include western elements such as ring exchange and cake cutting ceremony, the first dance, the exchange of vows, an all-night dance party, etc.. The ceremony can also be made more grand by including spellbinding Bhutanese masked dances, an archery match, a special world peace prayer, or the offering of 1000 butterlamps. If the couple is interested in starting a family immediately, a special fertility blessing arrangment can also be included. Check our fertility blessing options.

A traditional Bhutanese wedding ceremony begins with choosing of an auspicious day for the event. A high lama selects an "auspicious day" for the wedding based on the birth year of the bride and groom.

As we have seen the different way of wedding such as wedding in the air during sky diving, under water wedding in ocean during scuba diving, wedding in the highest peak of the world, Mt. Everest during expedition any many more unique ways to cherish the moment for lifetime. The traditional Bhutanese wedding is one of those experiences to gather. For more details information about Traditional Wedding Nepal please Contact Us:

*culled from www.silkroadgroup.com

Bhutan Holidays and Festivals

Bhutan holidays are invariably based on events in the Buddhist calendar, and occur all over the country throughout the year. Lasting between two and four days, they are joyous occasions marked by masked and costumed dances by monks, as well as townspeople. These dances are accompanied by traditional music and song, processions, trials of archery, and other indigenous activities. Bhutanese festivals aren't much like the fiestas and carnivals of the Western world as they involve centuries-old rituals which include shamanist and animist elements. The Tshechu festivals are the most important, and include the unveiling of huge and rare painted silk Buddhist
thangka (hangings).

Black-necked Crane Festival

This celebration of the arrival of Bhutan's famous colony of black-necked cranes takes place in Phobjikha Village every November. It's an event which not only celebrates the birds return to their nesting place, but is aimed at the conservation of these rare species. The birds are welcomed home with costumed and masked dances representing the cranes, dramatic performances, and children's songs.

Chorten Kora Festival

Set in Trashiyangtse in the east of the county, this festival celebrates the banishing of a local demon by an 18th century lama, Ngawang Loday, who built the stupa in memory of the event and is a popular place of pilgrimage. The festival takes place in Bhutan every March.

Haa Summer Festival

This lively festival takes place annually in July, showcasing the nomadic lifestyle of the people in Bhutan, as well as honoring their religion, traditional songs, dances, and music. It's a display of living culture in an area that only recently began accepting outside visitors.

Gomphu Kora Festival

The Gomphu Kora Festival, another of Bhutan's pilgrimage events, is set in the eastern region and takes place every March. Its heart is the circumnavigation of an ancient cave linked to an 8th century legend in which an evil spirit was destroyed by Guru Padmasambhava. Pilgrims have visited the site for more than a millennium, including those from the Dakba tribe of north India.

Merak Tshechu

This rare event takes place in a remote valley close to Thrashigang Dzong, which is inhabited by the nomadic Brokpa tribe. The high valley is untouched by the modern world and its peoples live as they have for centuries, rearing yaks and other animals. Bartering takes the place of currency and the women can take several husbands. The three-day festival is a unique occasion that ends with the unfurling of a huge thangka (Tibetan silk painting).

Thimphu Tshechu

One of the largest events in Bhutan, the three-day Thimphu Festival begins on the 10th day of the eighth lunar month. Costumed dances include the Dance of the Black Hats and masked movements performed by monks. Rituals and prayers continue for a full three days, concluding with the display of a giant, holy thangka.

Ura Yakchoe

This festival, held in Bumthang's Ura valley every May, is famous for its unique Ura Yakchoe dance. During the event, a sacred relic is displayed, and its legend is retold through dramatic interpretations. The story goes that one day; an old woman was visited by a llama, who asked her for a glass of water. When she returned with it, the llama had disappeared, leaving behind a sacred image, which has been owned by her descendents to this day.

Trongsa Tshecu

Trongsa in central Bhutan is the sacred heart of the country, and its Trongso Tshech draws thousands every December. Held over four days, the events sees devout Buddhists arrive from across the country to receive blessings from the unfurling of the sacred Thongdrol on the final day. The mask dances and traditional rituals have been performed here for hundreds of years.

*culled from www.iexplore.com

Bangladesh Hilda Chad Fish

Hilsa shad, one of the most important tropical fish of the family clupeidae under the genus Tenualosa and species ilisha is anadromous in nature, not a common phenomenon in tropical water compared to temperate and arctic regions, lives in the sea for most of its life, but migrates at least 1,200 km up in some river system in Indian sub-continent for spawning behavior. Distances of 50-100 km are more typical in Bangladesh.

Hilsa shad contributing 30 % of total fish production of Bangladesh, and about 40 % fishermen or 2 % of total population of the country earn their livelihood depending on Hilsa fishery directly or indirectly. Therefore economic contribution from this single species of fish is very high, in an agricultural based country like Bangladesh.

Three separate species of Hilsa Shad are found in Bay of Bengal, they are Hilsa kelee, Hilsa toli and Hilsa ilisha now Tenualosa ilisha. Tenualosa ilisha is considered as anadromous species while the other two species are restricted to marine environment. And in this report we are dealing only with anadromous stock.

During the commencement of the south-west monsoon and consequent flooding of all the rivers, Hilsa shad starts its spawning migration upstream. A mature Hilsa shad with a length ranging from 30-55 cm lays 0.1-2.0 million eggs, the eggs are deposited in fresh water, and hatching takes place in about 23 to 26 hours at an average temperature of 23oC. The newly hatched larvae is recorded as 2.3 mm in size and the larvae and juveniles make their way downstream to the sea during a period of several months, feeding and growing on the way. At this stage of their life cycle they are locally known as "Jatka". Jatka the juveniles of Hilsa shad from 4-15 cm are widely available during the period from February to May in the foreshore and riverine water of Padma, Meghna and other deltaic rivers of Bangladesh.

Usually Jatka grazes for five to six months age in fresh water before they migrate to seawater. They are caught in large amount using current nets of small mesh size during their grazing period in rivers as well as in sea shore by artisanal fishermen to sell them in local markets, calling them "Chapilla" instead of "Jatka", which is a different species of fish, and thus exploiting this resource in a way. According to a report published through Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institutte,over 3700 metric tons of Jatka are caught annually during their nursery season from inland rivers.

Jatka is usually a plankton feeder preferring zooplankton, and the rate of food intake is comparatively very high at this stage, but with the age and seasonal variability it changes its food habitat, and becoming bigger changes to phytoplankton feeder. And during maturation Hilsa shad decreases its food intake and cease feeding for the duration of spawning migration. After growing for 1-2 years in sea, Hilsa shad matures and reaches an size of 32-55 cm prior to their spawning migration towards inland rivers, and the cycle continues.

During their upstream migration these brood fish are caught by fishermen in huge amount in estuarine rivers using gill and seine net, moreover construction of dams, weir, anicuts in the rivers to impound water for irrigation, (specially in India) had topped the fish in their migration. Not only did this interfere with migration but it also rendered stock prone to excessively heavy exploitation at location where migration was impeded, the barriers are so many and the fishing methods so efficient that the potential breeders are ruthlessly exterminated, during the past 20 to 25 years in India. As a result the stock is available in huge amount in Bangladesh. But unfortunately once more this particular stock is being exploited, with over fishing and natural barrier in their migratory route due to heavy siltation in inland rivers.

Therefore conservation and management of this population in Bangladesh has become important for utilising this resource in future
Migration of Hilsa shad is not limited to monsoon only, but it also migrates for a short period during winter. In other words it can be said that Hilsa shad is available in the river through out the year. But the peak catch periods are during upstream migration in monsoon and winter.

During the peak catch period, due to shortage of sufficient storage facilities and ice availabilities, in addition to high temperature and poor transport facilities to northern part of the country, huge quantity of caught Hilsa shad is destroyed each year. Therefore steps should be taken to promote the export of fish, which could not be locally consumed during the peak catch periods.

The Story of The Hilsa Shad
Mizanur Rahman, Ph.D.
Formerly of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Biology
University of Bergen, Norway

*culled from www.asian-recipe.com

Bangladeshi Pre-Wedding Rituals

Bangladeshi marriage ceremonies spread over several days and included many rituals. A traditional Bangladeshi marriage used to last for seven days. These days it expands to duration of four days. The favourite season for weddings in Bangladesh is winter . A Bangladeshi marriage is mostly an arranged affair.

Panchini (Engagement)

This is the first formal event. Family members of both the parities take part into this event. Most important things is that the couple is not allowed to take part in each other engagement function. First engagement ceremony is held at the bride's house where father of the groom presents a ring to the bride. The engagement ring is usually put on the fourth finger of the right hand by either her future husband's mother or grandmother. This is followed by a feast. A similar event is held for the groom at his family home, where the bride is represented by members of her family and friends. After this formal engagement, the couple are allowed to meet and socialize. They can take on the phone or they can go for shopping.

Mehendi Sondha or henna ceremony

This ritual takes place two days before the wedding. The hands and feet of the bride are decorated with henna. It is believe that turmeric paste makes the skin soft and make bride more beautiful for the wedding day. On this auspicious day everybody in the bride's party wear yellow dress. A ladies' only get together party is also organised which consists of close relatives and friends.

Nanimukh ceremony

In this ritual the eldest male member of the family pays tribute to the deceased male ancestors. An elaborate puja is conducted in which all the family members request their holy spirits to bless the couple to-be.

Gaye Holud

It is one of the most interesting parts of a Bangladeshi wedding. The atmosphere is similar to a grand celebration. This ceremony takes place at the bride's house and grooms house turn by turn. The groom's family visits the house of the bride and present her gifts which includes trays with sweets, outfits for the bride, including bridal saris, shoes or sandals, jewellery, and make-up, and gifts for her family. The bride shows respect by touching the feet of the elders. The bride sits on an elevated place. On this occasion there is a custom to wear yellow clothes. In the end a feast organised for the guests. The same function is conducted at the groom's house also where the guests will wear green, red, orange and yellow costumes.

*culled from www.desievite1.blogspot.co.ke

Bangladesh Holidays and Festivals

Bangladeshi people are keen on incorporating traditions into their daily lives and Bangladesh holidays are a reflection of the unique customs and beautiful mix of culture. Most of the indigenous traditions that center around agricultural practices have been well preserved throughout history, including the festival of the new harvest (Nabonno) and the jovial and colorful celebration of New Year, locally known as Pawhela Boishakh .

Pawhela Boishakh

Of all the secular national festivities in Bangladesh, New Year's Day is the most celebrated. The Pawhela Boishakh festival is marked by a wide variety of cultural shows (Boishakhi Mela) and other programs. Everyone eats sweets and dresses up in kurtas or saris, wishing everyone a joyous new beginning.

Ekushey

Celebrated on the 21st day of February every year, Ekushey is known as the National Mother Language Day, which marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of those who died while protesting the imposition of Urdu as the national language of East and West Pakistan. Political leaders, writers, intellectuals, poets, artisans and singers offer tributes to those that suffered.

Independence Day

March 16th celebrates the proclamation of Bangladesh's independence, and each year, numerous events are held to commemorate the historic date.

Victory Day

Victory Day remembers the day the Pakistani army surrendered to the joint Bangladeshi and Indian Forces which is celebrated December 16.

Eid-ul-Fitr

The date of Eid-ul-Fitr varies each year based on the Muslim calendar. A feast that marks the completion of the holy month of Ramadan (the month of fasting), this is the largest festival celebrated annually in Bangladesh, followed by Eid-ul-Azha.

Durga Puja

Bangladeshis are predominantly Muslim, but some are devoted to other faiths, such as Hinduism. Durga Puja is the biggest festival of the Hindu community. Different rituals are observed, including the immersion of an idol of Durga into the river. Events are held at the Dhakeswari Temple and last for 10 days.

Christmas

Christmas is celebrated by the Christian community in Bangladesh. On the eve of December 25th, congregational prayers are held in various churches, particularly in Tejgaon.

*culled from www.iexplore.com

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The Engagement, Henna and Nikah in Afghan Marriage Customs

Engagement is an essential part of Afghan marriage customs. The groom's family members and elders visit the home of the bride on a specified date. They bring with them sweets and gifts for the bride to be and money and clothes for the family members of the bride. The bride's family hosts a meal and then the request for the hand of the girl in marriage is formally made to the father of the bride by the father of the groom. The groom is then accepted by the father of the bride as "his servant".

The two parties then discuss matters of dowry as part of Afghan marriage customs. These could include discussions on amount of jewelry the bride will be given, the expenses of the wedding and other necessities that may be pledged by the groom's family. The groom's family then agrees upon the 'mahr' which is Quranic direction but not price for the girl. It generally consists of livestock, property and money.

The intervening period between the engagement and the marriage

The groom and his family must finance the bride money for purchasing her jewelry, clothes and other trousseau. They may also provide carpets, dishes and other household items to the bride. The groom is also expected to bear the wedding expenses. If the groom cannot afford to bear the expenses, he agrees to live with his future father in law and serve him till the debt is paid. The bride and the groom do not meet during this period, but they can exchange gifts through a family member or friend. The parents of the groom may also visit the bride during festive occasion.

The Henna Night: Takht e Khina

This is a function that is held before the wedding. It may be held a few days before the wedding or on the night preceding the wedding. The expenses of the function are to be borne by the groom's family.

However, the Takht e Khina or the henna party is hosted by the bride's home. The groom's family prepares the henna and carries baskets of it to the bride's home. Children wearing new traditional clothes are pressed into service and they carry the baskets decorated with flowers and candles in a procession that is made festive with appropriate music..

On arrival of the procession, refreshments are served by the bride's family and the rituals begin. The groom is escorted to the dais to sit by the bride by the groom's elder brother. The bride is teased by the female relatives of the groom and not allowed to reach the dais unless she pays toll. During the henna party the bride too has her bit of fun. She will close her right hand and refuse to let them decorate it unless the groom's mother gives her a gift or the groom promises her gifts or opens her hand with force.

The groom then puts henna in the bride's hand and covers it with a white clean cloth. He then leaves the party. The female relatives on both sides begin decorating the bride's hands and feet with henna patterns. All the female relatives who are present will also use henna on their hands and feet. 

Unmarried girls believe that getting henna on their pinkie fingers will improve their prospects of getting married soon.

The Nikah or marriage ceremony in Afghan marriage Customs

The Afghan marriage customs demand that the festivities are spread over three days. The ceremonies are conducted between 6 p.m and 2 a.m.

The ceremony begins with the bride and the groom exchanging vows in the presence of the mullah or priest. The priest will read sections from the Quran and direct the bride and the groom through the ceremony. This is a family event in which close family and friends participate.

The next part of the wedding is similar to the western marriage reception. This is normally hosted by the groom's family and a large number of guests are invited to attend. In conservative Afghan families, the female and male guests are separated and entertained in exclusive areas.

Lavish dinner is provided and after dinner, the bride and groom walk up the aisle as they are showered with sweets and flowers and a special song is played known as the Asta Burrow meaning "go slow". The bride and groom then seat themselves on a raised stage. The bride and groom then go through several rituals and also exchange rings and cut the wedding cake.

In the morning, breakfast is served and the bride and groom are conducted to their wedding chamber and left alone.

culled from www.muslim-marriage-guide.com

Afghanistan Holidays and Festivals

Afghans are enthusiastic about their national celebrations. Afghanistan holidays are observed with zeal, and people are devoted to religious events. Nau Roz, or the New Year, is the best known and most joyous time in the country, along with the Independence Day celebration.

Ashura

During the month of Musharram, Afghans commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed. Ashura marks the 10th day of the month-long mourning.

Nowruz

Held between January and March (whichever date the New Year falls according to the Islamic calendar), Nau Roz is the most popular of all the festivals in Afghanistan. Farmers express gratitude and joy for abundant produce and people celebrate with music and dance. It is also during the Nau Roz or New Year festival that buzkashi matches or tournaments are held.

Mawleed al Nabi

Depending on the Islamic calendar, Mawleed al Nabi is celebrated between the months of Marh and May when residents of Afghanistan remember the birth of the revered Islamic prophet (Muhammad). It is a day to offer special prayers and visit mosques.

Labor Day

Labor Day is a national holiday and a legacy of the Soviet era.

Jeshyn-Afghan Day

The independence day of Afghanistan falls on August 19, commemorating the end of British control over the foreign affairs of the country.

Ramadan

Ramadan is one of the most sacred traditions of the Islamic faith. It usually falls between the months of September and November each year, depending on the calendar. During the month-long observance, Afghans don't eat or drink anything during the day and almost all restaurants and businesses are closed.

Eid e Fitr

Eid e Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. During this celebration, people pray collectively in mosques and then gather with relatives and friends to enjoy a hearty feast.

Eid e Qurban

Eid e Qurban falls between December and February on the Afghan calendar, during which animals like goats, camels, or sheep are sacrificed to mark the commencement of the Muslim pilgrimage (Haj).

*culled from www.iexplore.com

Zimbabwe Wedding Traditions

Wedding traditions in Zimbabwe share a common thread in terms of values, views, and experiences with other African regions. You may celebrate your heritage and honor your ancestry by incorporating your customs and traditions in your wedding ceremony and reception. Aside from performing traditional rituals, couples can also incorporate ethnic touches into its wedding program and reception. Couples should know their wedding traditions. It is important that they understand the reason behind these traditions and the history of the traditions because this will enable couples to perform the traditions more sincerely.

Here are 7 of the most common customs and traditions in a Zimbabwe Wedding .

7. Munyai

The Munyai is the messenger for the intention of the groom to marry his bride. The Munyai conveys the message and intentions of marriage (the proposal) to the bride's family. The Munyai has to be a family member or close friend of the groom to be, but he may not need to be specifically an uncle or the father.

6. Matebele House Paintings

The Matebele House Painting is passed down from generation to generation by the mothers. It is a painting of a home. A well painted home indicates that the female of the household is a good wife and mother. The bride is responsible for the painting of the outside gates, front walls, sidewalls, and the interior of the home.

5. Idzila

Idzila are copper and brass rings worn by the bride around her arms, legs and neck. These rings were believed to have strong powers and the wife would wear them to symbolize her bond and faithfulness to her husband once her home was built. The husband will provide this rings to the wife to show a sign of wealth.

4. Isigolwani

Isigolwani are neck hoops made of grass and covered in beads commonly worn by married women for ceremonial occasions. The Isigolwani is also worn by newly wed women whose husbands had not yet provided them with a home, or by girls who were of age to marry.

3. Mbira

Mbira plays a major role in Zimbabwe wedding tradition. The Mbira is a musical instrument made of a wooden board with staggered metal keys. Mbira is a sacred music.It is believed that this music summons the guidance from the spirits of family ancestors (vadzimu), spirits of deceased chiefs (mhondoro) and the most powerful guardian spirits.

2. Cattle

Weddings are usually celebrated with the killing of a Cattle as part of their ceremony. It is also not uncommon to see in a Zimbabwe wedding the killing of a goat or a cow, in place of a Cattle, as part of the wedding celebration.

1. Roora

In the Shona language, Ku-Roora means "to be a partner in a marriage transaction; to acquire a wife by Shona custom." From this word is where "Roora" is derived to have been defined as the "bride-price" or "dowry." Roora may be money or other valuables are given to the girl's family to legitimate or seal the marriage. It is but one component of the rich fabric of Shona custom, which defines and regulates the complex relationships between tribe, family and individual. The most common Roora is a cattle. But other gifts may include blankets, shoes, hats and suits for the woman's parents.

*culled from www.zimbabwewedding.org

Zimbabwe Holidays and Festivals

Travelers to Zimbabwe are bound to stumble upon a celebration of music, art, film, or dance at some point during the year. Zimbabwe holidays include the famous Harare International Festival of Arts (HIFA), which is a highlight for locals and tourists alike, or the Jikinya Traditional Dance Festival, which aims to keep local dance tradition alive.

Harare International Festival of Arts (HIFA)

The Harare International Festival of Arts is held annually at the end of April and is one of the largest events in the country. Featuring both local and international acts in the genres of music, theater, and visual arts, there is also a great arts and crafts market from which unique souvenirs can be purchased.

Harare Jazz Festival

April is a busy month for Harare, at least festival-wise. April 15 to 16 marks the annual Jazz Festival. Famous African musicians take to the stage and there are workshops for budding talent. All of the proceeds go to charity and many students are given free entry.

Bulawayo Music Festival

Presented by the Zimbabwe Academy of Music, the Bulawayo Music Festival is held every two years from May 23-27. Playing host to a wide range of genres including classical, pop, jazz, and gospel, the festival is one of best musical showcases in the country. There are a variety of concerts by both international and Zimbabwean acts, but also informative workshops for festival-goers to attend.

Zimbabwe International Book Fair

Bookworms will be pleased to know that Harare hosts a topnotch literary event. The Zimbabwe International Book Fair, which takes place every July, is a celebration of the word in Zimbabwe. Nearly 100 publishers take part in the occasion, which is held at Harare Gardens. There is also a great program of talks and workshops by renowned authors for the general public to enjoy.

Zimbabwe International Film Festival (ZIFF)

Held in Harare annually every August, the Zimbabwe International Film Festival spans 10 days and showcases the best feature films, shorts, and documentaries the region and abroad have to offer. It also hosts workshops, which are open to all attendees. The event is a non-political, not for profit initiative which aims to develop a network of creative individuals in the region.

Harare International Food Festival

Visitors who are lucky enough to visit in November should make a stop at the Harare International Food Festival. Still in its early years, the event is making an impact on the foodie and gourmet scene. Showcasing everything from international cuisine to regional wine, this festival brings together the best cuisine and chefs from around Zimbabwe and overseas to taste everything from wine and whiskey to paté and pasta, and you are sure to leave full.

Jikinya Traditional Dance Festival

Last but definitely not least, the Jikinya Traditional Dance Festival is one of the only events which celebrates traditional cultures in the country. Held annually in November by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, the festival brings together primary school children from around the country who perform a variety of indigenous dance numbers. The finale is usually hosted in either Harare or Bulawayo.

*culled from www.iexplore.com

The Zambian Marriage

Zambian anthropology defines marriage as a union between a man and woman. Marriage is the first gift that God gave to human beings, the creator blessed it and gave us the power to be pro creators on earth. Hence, Marriage has accompanied the human story from the very Genesis. Each culture defines marriage life differently.

In the Zambian culture we have some marriage values that we cannot do without. There are values and beliefs that have been there for generations and these are rituals that prepare one for a good and long lasting marriage. 

Here are some of the traditions of our lovely Zambian culture, though I'm not here to discuss them more profoundly but just to give a brief hint of them. The process that leads to marriage consists of the following steps:

1) Insalamu when two young people fall in love, the man takes the first step and takes the Insalamu (token) which shows the commitment he has towards a woman he intends to marry. The two families then accept and acknowledge the intention of their children.

2) Nkobekela is the period that goes from the time that the insalamu is accepted by the woman's side up to marriage or wedding day. During this time the two partners get to know each other and their families better.

3) Amatebeto The woman's family responds to the man's side with amatebeto. It's a ritual practice for social and union between the two families.The womans family prepares a feast for the mans family.

Before the wedding day, the elders organizes themselves to teach both the man and a woman traditional values on how to abide in their new marriage life.

In Zambia today we are slowly losing these traditions and in the end we shall forfeit our identity just because of the so called world globalization. Our marriages should not be influenced by any other cultures.Besides Westerners have their own way of interpreting marriage life.

Nowadays, there are lot of divorces in Zambia which was something very rare many years ago. Are we easily disregarding the traditional values we are taught in exchange for the frivolous western values. Do our women deserve divorce? Perhaps its the women who nowadays want to wear the pants in the home.When we stand up for gender and change of some cultural practices we have to be careful.For example, when people stood up in Zambia to fight for liberty of dressing, what has come out of this liberty? We have lost our dressing code and our identity. 

Zambian men and women, we need to go back to our roots and pick up our identity and have respect in our marriages.

Let's not just rush to make a change without putting into consideration the effects it will give us tomorrow.
Touch not marriage, otherwise our families will soon become like that of westerners where marriage has become like a contract. God created man and a woman and he consecrated them for marriage life and our culture as taught us how to interpret marriage life.

By Martin Mwango

*culled from www.lusakatimes.com

Zambia Holidays and Festivals

Experiencing a traditional festival or Zambia holiday is sure to be a highlight of any vacation. There are many tribes celebrating customs, rituals, history, and spiritual beliefs filled with color, dancing and drumming. The Ku-omboka is one of the most famous, followed by the Likumbi Lya Mize.

Nc'wala

This festival is celebrated by the Ngoni tribe in Chipata to mark the first fruit of the season. The chief dresses up in leopard skin and tastes the treat, which is usually maize, pumpkin or sugarcane. He must then spear a bull and drink its blood, re-enacting a tradition that descended from the Zulu cultures. This event takes place each year on February 24.

Ku-omboka

To get out of the water and onto dry land is the meaning of the word that shares its name with the most famous festival in Zambia. Marking the end of the rainy season, the chief of the Lozi people (the Litunga) decides that it's time to head for higher ground. Drums signal that it's time to pack up and embark in canoes. The Litunga dresses up in a Victorian ambassador costume and is taken down the river, while music is played and feasts enjoyed. The ceremony dates back over 300 years and takes place in the Zambezi Basin in May.

Umutomboko

Each July, the Lunda and Lubapeople come together to celebrate their coming to Zambia from the Congo. Legend says that Chief Mwata Yamva ordered his people to build a tower that would reach the sky in order to bring him the sun and moon. The tower fell during its many construction attempts and many were killed in the process. This caused many families to run away in fear. They then traveled across the river and conquered all tribes they came across. Each time they overtook a tribe, they celebrated a ritual called Umutomboko.
Today, the event is a two-day celebration that boasts a ritual performance with pounding drums and speeches. Beer and food are brought to the chief who then pays homage to his ancestors before being carried back to the palace. On the second day, a Mutomboko dance is led after a goat slaughtering. The chief then points his sword in all directions to show that no one in any direction can conquer him.

Kazanga

Zambia's oldest ceremony dates back to the Nkoyo people that inhabited the region over 500 years ago. It celebrates traditions through dance, music and other ancient practices annually in June, July or August in Kaoma in the Zambezi basin area.

Kulamba

This festival celebrates the Chewa thanksgiving and is famous for its colorful Nyau secret society dancers. It is held each year on the last Saturday in August in the village of Undi and brings together the Chewa people in Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Young women perform to show they are ready to enter womanhood while masked male Nyau dancers move through the crowds.

Likumbi Lya Mize

The day of Mize is a popular festival that is held each year in Zambia in August. It takes place at the Mize, which is the official palace of Senior Chief Ndungu of the Luvale tribe. It is a Makishi masquerade that is a tradition in which moral and life lessons are given to boys between the ages of eight and 12. The four-day celebration starts on the last Wednesday of the month and takes place on both sides of the Zambezi River. Market stalls selling baskets, fabrics, metalwork, and carvings are lined up, and masked Makishi dancers and performers recreate mythological events. There is non-stop entertainment and visitors are invited to take part in many activities, concluding with a royal Makishi parade for the chief.

Livingstone Cultural & Arts Festival

This annual September festival celebrates the artists in Zambia, from dance to painters. Theatrical troupes, performance pieces, music groups, jugglers, and clowns fill the streets. Tourists can buy art like paintings, sculptures and pottery.

Shimunenga

This Bai-ila tribe festival is held to show respect to their ancestors by thanking them for providing food over the past year. It takes place once a year on a full moon between September and November, and signifies the closing of one year and the beginning of the next. It is held in Maala on the Kafue Flats for three days.

*culled from www.iexplore.com

Getting Tattooed, Somali Style

Waiting for my red henna to dry

Henna tattoos are a big part of women's wedding preparations in many Arab countries. The same is true for Somali culture. If you ever find yourself in Hargeisa, Somaliland, you should definitely give it a try.

Enter the central market, and walk through the food section. if you look closely at the walls behind the vending tables, you may spot a picture of hands with henna tattoos. Or just ask someone to show you where they are.

All done!

Remember to be female. The henna salons are just tiny rooms closed with curtains – a strict no-go zone for men. Take off your niqab (face covering) if you are wearing one, and your shoes, and sit down on the mat to wait for your turn. Most Somali women get brown Henna, but red is available as well. For hands only, brown costs $3 and red $4.

Red henna

This gave me a flashback of the Sahrawi wedding I attended in Laayoune, in the occupied Western Sahara. Both Somaliland and Western Sahara are unrecognized states. They are at the opposite ends of the African continent, yet they have things in common, such as henna. Incredible!

Married Sahrawi women get both 
hands and feet tattooed. Laayoune, Western Sahara 2012

I thoroughly enjoyed the Somali wedding. I'm a lucky, lucky traveler. Hargeisa, you're too good to me!

*culled from www.zainabrown.wordpress.com

Western Sahara International Film Festival (FiSahara) via CEAS

The Western Sahara International Film Festival (FiSahara) is an annual event held in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Southwestern Algeria, home to Sahrawi exiles who fled a Moroccan and Mauritanian military invasion of their homeland in 1975. FiSahara, a project of the Coordinadora Estatal de Asociaciones Solidarias con el Sáhara (CEAS-Sáhara) aims to empower and entertain Sahrawis through film and cultural resistance and to raise international awareness on a forgotten crisis.

FiSahara's human rights audiovisual workshops provide Sahrawi human rights defenders, video activists, and film students from the occupied territory and the camps with crucial skills in filming, editing, and sharing human rights materials. The workshops are a key advocacy tool for Sahrawis and an important way of informing international human rights organizations and media that have little access to the Morocco-occupied territory. The workshops also connect Sahrawi human rights defenders and their struggle with filmmakers, activists, and non-governmental organizations.

A 2016 grant from the Cultures of Resistance Network supported the participation of two Palestinians in the festival's film and advocacy workshops. Osloob, a Palestinian hip-hop artist from the West Bank, helped conduct a Music as Resistance Workshop where young Sahrawis learned how to employ hip-hop as a vehicle for self-expression and resistance. Riham Ghazali, a Gazan filmmaker and member of the Sahshat Palestinian Women's Film Festival, helped train women in Dakhla in the use of smartphones to make short films and tell stories about their lives.

A 2015 grant from the Cultures of Resistance Network supported audiovisual, culture, and communication workshops at the 2015 festival. The workshops aimed to provide refugees with media skills to tell their own stories, document their culture, and address pressing issues in their communities. For children and youth, the workshops provided creative storytelling outlets.

A 2014 grant from the Cultures of Resistance Network facilitated the participation of Arabic-speaking instructors at an intensive workshop for human rights video activists and defenders that took place at the Abidin Kaid Saleh Audiovisual School three weeks before the festival and continued during FiSahara 2014.

A 2013 grant from the Cultures of Resistance Network helped FiSahara purchase cameras, computers, and other essential gear for these workshops.

Women Make Movies served as a fiscal sponsor for this grant.

Website: www.festivalsahara.com

Uganda Holidays and Festivals

There are not too many Uganda holidays or festivals that have made it past one or two years of organization. The ones that are still going strong are predominantly focused on the country's growing arts and music scene. Jazz and hip-hop are at the top of their game in Uganda and its festivals showcase this. Still, the biggest event by far is the Bayimba International Festival of Music and Arts, which showcases the country's best music, dance and theater.

Festival on the Nile

This weekly celebration takes place at the beginning of August in Jinja, and focuses on the rich and diverse cultures of the people that live along this famous river, blended with traditional art and culture from all over the globe. It features music, dance, theater, folklore and storytelling, and food as well as live performances. It also has a street parade, children's activities and dance workshops. It is a great opportunity to learn about the tribes throughout Uganda, and the lineup changes each year.

Amakula Kampala International Film Festival

Also known as the Amakula Kampala Cinema Caravan Festival, this festival moves around the country over a course of four months, from the beginning of September to the end of November. It showcases both old and new films that feature themes of independence and fall under one of five platforms, which include African Panorama, Highlights and Tributes, Regional Views, Landmarks and Contemporary World Cinema. It also offers workshops on film training and creating soundtracks for silent films.

Bayimba International Festival of Music and Arts

Each September, this popular three-day festival takes place at the Uganda National Theatre in Kampala's city centre. The festival focuses on arts and culture in Uganda and is a must for all visitors hoping to learn more about the music and art scene of the country. This festival has grown to become the country's number one festival, in which Kampala truly comes to life. The festival brings music, film, dance, theater, and visual arts together under one roof, and showcase not only local artists but those from other East African counties as well.

B-Global Indigenous Hip Hop Festival

This four-day festival that happens each September was created to celebrate hip hop in Uganda. Its vision is to educate youth through hip hop culture and to teach Ugandan youth the importance of reconnecting with their roots. It brings the youth of Uganda together with some of Uganda's hip hop leaders to promote peace, love and fun.

Nile Gold Jazz Safari

This one-day event happens each October in Kampala and features some incredible jazz played by musicians from all over the world. Each year there is a new list of performers, but one thing that is consistent is that the music is always fantastic. Saxophones, bass guitars, drums, keyboards and pianos play to a growing audience of Ugandan jazz lovers, and of course visitors are always welcome.

This Is Uganda

This annual festival is to showcase the diverse cultures throughout Uganda through art, music, poetry and dance, with an emphasis on female artists. Each December thousands come to Kampala's Kyandondo Rugby Club to watch some phenomenal live performances. The festival also has a lounge area where festival goers can socialize, as well as booths that promote woman's rights, education and HIV/AIDS awareness.

*culled from www.iexplore.com

Tunisian Wedding Traditions & Rituals

Manuel Meszarovits

Tunisian weddings are at least a three-day affair with often week-long celebrations involving hundreds of family and friends, some of whom stay in the groom and bride's family homes. Traditions vary from the north and south and between families – whatever happens it will be vibrant and filled with laughter.

Manuel Meszarovits

Over a period of time the bride would have been buying items to furnish her new home. One of the lead up days to the wedding party can include a day to display the bride's purchases, gifts and trousseau, indicating her readiness to live in her new home.

Manuel Meszarovits

The hammam visit is very important – the bride covered with the safsari (large shawl), together with her friends and family make their way walking along the street accompanied by music and singing and the all familiar zaghareed (ululating).

Manuel Meszarovits

Everyone knows a wedding is to take place. The ladies indulge in the steam and enjoy a massage in preparation for the henna evening. It is believed henna brings good luck and happiness so it is very important for Tunisian women to have a professional hennana create beautiful tattoos in readiness for the wedding celebration.

Manuel Meszarovits

That evening the groom often has a party with his male friends and family members either at his home or to a restaurant.

The following day, a procession of tooting cars leaves the groom's home and heads off to the bride's house accompanied by musicians playing the tabl and flute. The groom will bring gifts of perfume, clothes and beauty products for his bride. This is the time to sign the marriage contract – the bride will be wearing a white kaftan and the groom in the traditional jebba.

Manuel Meszarovits

After the signing the music and dancing begin, there is no volume control when it comes to Arabic music! The bride will change into a gold dress and dance to show off her henna. Dinner will be served and among other dishes will be delicious tarjine and spicy couscous.

It has been an action packed week with the culmination of the final party. The bride goes to the beauty salon and the groom has a session at the hammam and the barber with his friends. The bride may choose a white bridal dress or the traditional exotic Tunisian Arab wedding dress or a combination of both, with her changing during the evening. Whatever the outfit, it will be stunning and the female guests will be dressed in beautifully coloured gowns and decked with jewels.

The couple will spend the majority of the evening sitting on ornate chairs upon a stage, there will be a constant flow of guests for photos - this can go on for hours. Sweets, nuts, fruit juice and mint tea are offered to the guests. Women will ululate and the music, dancing and entertainment continues until the early hours of the morning. The honeymoon must be a welcome relief!

Written by Helen Schrader

*culled from www.aroosjoon.com

Tunisia Holidays and Festivals

Most of the Tunisia holidays and festivals take place in summer, and most are focused on music, crafts, or other aspects of Tunisian culture. The Tunisian Medina Festival livens up the holy month of Ramadan in the Tunisian capital each year, while Carthage and Hammamet each host their own international festivals, filled with music, dance, and creative arts. Tunisia closes each year with its oldest festival of all, the International Festival of the Sahara, a tribute to southern Tunisia's traditional Sahara Desert culture.

Tunisian Medina Festival

The municipal theater in the heart of Tunis is the main venue of this festival, which is held in the Tunisian capital during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which can fall at any time of the year. In addition to the usual array of religious ceremonies that normally take place in Muslim cities during Ramadan, this festival also features international films and musical performances. Street shows and people dressed in medieval costumes spill out across the city.

Festival of the Oases of Mountain in Tamerza

Tunisia's largest mountain oasis first hosted this annual March festival to commemorate the 100th anniversary of one of Tunisia's most famous poets, Abou El Kacem Chebbi. The smaller Degueche child festival and El Khiyam tent festival take place at the same time as this celebration of Tamerza culture. Visitors can sample local food and purchase local crafts. The festival also features two animation shows, a local art show, film screenings, horse racing, and poetry readings.

Festival of the Purebred Arabian Horse of Maknassy

No known breed of horse has a longer history than the 5,000-year-old Arabian horses that are showcased during this June festival. The ancestors of today's Arabian horses carried conquering armies across ancient Mesopotamia. An Arabian horse racing display is the main event of this festival's first day, while the next two days are dedicated to an international Arabian horse show. Africa's largest horse show also includes a craft fair featuring artisans from across Tunisia.

International Festival of Carthage

At no other time of year does the always-popular city of Carthage welcome more visitors than during this annual festival. Held in Carthage's Ancient Roman 7,500-seat amphitheater, the festival starts in the middle of July and continues into August. The first International Festival of Carthage was held in 1964, but the event has since grown into one of Northern Africa's largest entertainment festivals. James Brown, Louis Armstrong, and Ray Charles are just a handful of the legendary musicians who have performed here.

International Festival of Hammamet

Like its sister festival in Carthage, Hammamet's annual international festival is a celebration of music, dance, and other performing arts. For more than a month between July and August, this picturesque coastal community on northeast Tunisia hosts dozens of jazz and other musicians from around the globe. However, this is not longer just a music festival; visitors now also have roughly a dozen French theatrical plays to choose from.

International Ulysse Festival of Djerba

This festival on Tunisia's 'island of lotus eaters' starts in July, lasts until August, and attracts visitors from across the country and the world. Djerba's Houmt Souk is filled with performances by local actors, musicians, and visual artists. One day of the festival is dedicated entirely to children's entertainment, another day is dedicated to sports, and a third focuses on arts and crafts made by women. The 10-day Guellala Pottery Festival also occurs during this period.

Tozeur Oasis Festival

Performers from 10 different countries take part in southern Tunisia's largest cultural festival. Apart from a brief period during WWII, this festival has taken place every year in one form or another since 1938, and became international in 1991. Parades, poetry recitations, film screenings, and horseback riding and racing along southern Tunisia's oasis are among the highlights of this festival, which starts in late November and extends into December.

International Festival of the Sahara

Each December, Tunisia ends each year with its oldest and most famous festival. This Douz festival was originally named the Camel Festival when it was held for the first time in 1910. It has since grown into a four-day tribute to southern Tunisia's nomadic cultures and traditions. Douz's H'naiech Stadium hosts most of the main events, including camel marathons, Arabian horse racing, and traditional Bedouin wedding ceremonies. However, the most popular event of all may be the poetry contest, which is sponsored by Abdellatif Belgacem, a famous desert poet.

*culled from www.iexplore.com