Exploring traditions, understanding the past

The ninth edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, which runs under the slogan, Inspired by Heritage, will be held for 16 days throughout the emirate, including Sharjah city, Hamriya, Al Dhaid, Khorfakkan, Kalba, Wadi El Helou and Maleha.

At this year’s programme, a private collection of photographs will be on display that offers visitors an insight into the lives of foreigners as they passed through the UAE, which includes photographs of Sir Wilfred Thesiger (also known as Mubarak Bin London). Poetry recitals and plays will be performed every Monday in Al Arsah Souq in addition to a daily programme that include a series of workshops provided by artists from Sharjah Art Institute, who will teach visitors how to draw calligraphy.

“Through carrying out such festivals, we are protecting our heritage and teaching the younger generation the importance in valuing our national identity. It is now time for citizens to give back their part to the nation, in the same way that our nation has given us our culture and tradition,” said Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Director of Heritage Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture and Information.

The event also coincides with the celebration of the World Heritage Day on April 18.

“We should not lose ourselves in this world of globalisation and we should protect our heritage, which can be done by carrying out festivals such as this one,” said Abdulaziz Al Mussalam, General Coordinator of Sharjah Heritage Days.

“The younger generation have to first learn and understand the achievements of their grandfathers and appreciate the past, so that they can learn to be successful and appreciate the present,” said Al Mussalam.

Organised by the Heritage Division of the Sharjah Information and Culture Department, in collaboration with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, the Sharjah Heritage Days offers an insight into bread making, preparation of spices, wedding rituals, Arabic poetic sessions and sea songs recited by young UAE nationals.

The event, according to Al Mussalam, promotes heritage as a platform in a family-oriented atmosphere to UAE nationals and expatriates alike.

“Visitors have the opportunity to explore the past through various activities, where they can witness nationals protecting their heritage and traditions,” he said.

The activities available at Old Sharjah also include a parade, more than 60 handicraft exhibitions, and a display of the country’s different types of environment, in addition to traditional games, cuisines and coffees.

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com