Rédaction Africa Links 24 with lexpress
Published on 2024-03-16 02:45:00
During 29 days, the city of Antsiranana, like elsewhere, is immersed in the period of Ramadan, constituting the fourth of the five pillars of Islam. The month is marked by a particular daily atmosphere.
During this holy month, believers abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, lying, and gossiping, from dawn to dusk. Intimate relations during the day are also forbidden, and prayer punctuates the daily life of Antsiranais Muslims.
The rituals give rhythm to life, color it, and punctuate it. They are passed down from generation to generation and are carried out in a family atmosphere, imbued with joy and conviviality.
This month is eagerly awaited by all Muslims because it is not like any other month. They must be stricter and dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to respecting the precepts and prescriptions of Islam and to distancing themselves from any behavior or conduct that goes against the recommendations of their religion.
It is also the perfect opportunity for them to gather with family and friends. They become more devout, more charitable, and more compassionate towards the needy. Thus, the festive atmosphere of Ramadan and the spirit of mutual aid and compassion prevail among the growing number of faithful Antsiranais.
During this period, life may slow down a bit, but it should not prevent them from having a good day. However, attention should be paid to schedules, as well as alcohol consumption. The few bars or pubs open year-round are closed shortly before Ramadan and throughout its duration.
**Iftar**
There are fewer people than usual at the city’s markets. Customers complain about rising prices, while merchants lament low turnout. The most unfortunate are the kebab sellers, as residents rush home in the evening. In some markets and streets, special foods are made and prepared during this period.
At sunset, around 6 pm, activity returns to normal, with the “kofotoro” iftar or F’tour, a form of release for the “fasters,” allowed to eat and drink, often gathering with family.
In the home, mothers and grandmothers prepare special dishes, always setting aside plates in which they put the largest pieces reserved for the neighbors. “We cannot eat without first sharing with neighbors or loved ones,” says an Imam.
Thus, Ramadan is considered the month of generosity and conviviality. Family, friends, and neighbors gather around a festive table to enjoy together traditional and varied dishes, each more exquisite than the other. Everyone benefits from the wonders that F’tour has to offer, a real treat. Pastries play a central role on the Ramadan table.
Generally enjoyed after the evening tarawih prayer, they are accompanied by a good glass of mint tea or coffee.
At nightfall after El Iftar, Muslim believers put on their best clothes to go to the mosque with other adults for the Tarawih prayer.
When we talk about the Ramadan atmosphere, we think of images, smells, and sounds that evoke a special atmosphere.
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