Drums central to Ashura celebrations

(11 Sep 2019) LEAD IN:
Shia Muslims in Morocco have celebrated Ashura.
Families gathered to share food and sing traditional songs with drums.

STORY-LINE:
In Morocco, Ashura is a time of celebration.
A variety of sweets, dried fruits, and pastries will be served up throughout the Ashura week in most households.
And this means brisk business for market vendors in Sale.
Market vendor, Abed Elkbier Elkorty, knows a good bargain.
"Ashura is a celebration that we inherited from our ancestors, people buy this for the celebration and the prices are affordable."
A slightly more unusual gift, but a common one nonetheless, are these colourful drums.
"During this celebration, people buy Tarej and Bander (types of drums) to bring joy to the children," explains drum seller, Mohamed Elatar.
"You can buy some of these and donate to others, you will be blessed and rewarded from God."
The rhythmic sounds and vibrant colours catch the attention of two passers-by.
"The drums are important for the festive gathering of families," says shopper, Kalthom Elnazi.
Back at home, the Ashura celebrations are in full swing.
Traditional songs accompanied by the beat of the drums have the whole family joining in.
"During Ashura, we celebrate with our families and children, we buy our children toys for that day and we buy fakia (dry fruits and nuts)," explains mother, Iman Azhary.
Couscous with vegetables is served and it is not long before everyone begins to dig in.
"When we finish the main course we go to the streets with our children to find the youths preparing a big campfire. People also gather around with drums to celebrate some more," says family member, Fatima Zohra Sdier.
The rituals do not end there. As the night falls, the celebrations continue on the streets,
Children light sparklers and watch a huge bonfire blaze under the night sky.
Ashura marks the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and one of Shia Islam's most important figures.
This year, Ashura falls on September 9, the 10th day of Muharram in the Islamic lunar calendar.

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