Mesaharaty and lanterns: a deep-rooted Ramadan tradition in Egypt

Cairo: With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, many seasonal professions associated for centuries with the blessed month re emerge, bringing pr...

Cairo: With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, many seasonal professions associated for centuries with the blessed month re-emerge, bringing prosperity to those who practice them.

Whether making lanterns, confectionery, and their supply brings to life a vibrant economy each year, providing a source of income for thousands of families who have inherited these seasonal professions and adapted them to modern developments to ensure their continued presence in welcoming the holy month.

The mesaharaty (the traditional night caller who wakes people for the pre-dawn mea) closely tied to Egyptian heritage during Ramadan and remains resilient to the fast pace of modern life. Lantern-making has remained a thriving craft in Egypt, as these lanterns symbolize the joy and celebration of Ramadan’s arrival.

They not only bring delight to children but also decorate the facades of homes, restaurants, and shops. There is hardly a street in Egypt is without a lantern hanging at its center or entrance, alongside khayamiya (traditional decorative textile art), which has also seen widespread popularity over the past decade. These decorations now adorn homes and building entrances like artistic displays, featuring phrases and designs celebrating the fasting month.

As preparations for Ramadan intensify, Qatar News Agency toured Khayamiya Street in the Darb Al Ahmar district of Cairo, where shops and artisan workshops experience growing activity with the approach of the holy month, especially lantern manufacturing. The craft has evolved significantly to include modern designs while maintaining its traditional forms, which remain prominent despite competition from imported products.