Qatar University celebrates Garangao

Qatar University (QU)’s Communications & Public Relations Department, in co-operation with the QU’s Early Childhood Centre, organised a Garangao event, a traditional celebration that coincides with the 14th night of Ramadan.The QU’s College of Education, College of Business and Economics, College of Law and QU Health all participated in the event.In a statement, QU director of communications and public relations Dr Hitmi al-Hitmi said: "To preserve Qatari traditions inherited from our ancestors, in loyalty to them, and to pass these traditions on to future generations, we launched the Garangao event and dedicated Fadaa 33 (QU’s winter market) this week to this theme as well.”"The Garangao event strengthens interaction between the university and the community and brings joy to children,” he added.Dr al-Hitmi noted that in addition to this Ramadan custom, the Communications & Public Relations Department distributed the Ramadan Imsakiya, a schedule that includes all the prayer times, and is now working on distributing copies of the Holy Qur'an, as well as other activities that will be spread over the duration of the month.Senior marketing specialist Sheikha al-Emadi said: "This initiative, inspired by the values of Garangao, comes as part of efforts to preserve the local culture and heritage, revive traditional customs and instill the values of giving, sharing and the spirit of co-operation among children.”Business support specialist at the Early Childhood Centre, Latifa Ali al-Mohannadi, said: "We celebrate Garangao, which is a popular custom in the Qatar and in the Gulf. It is also considered the most celebrated Ramadan custom in the middle of the blessed month of Ramadan.”"One of the most important features of this event is the joy of children wearing traditional Qatari dress, chanting songs and distributing sweets,” she said.