Ramadan gathering with diplomatic touch

Amina Abdullah Qutba, wife of HE Counselor Ali al-Zainal, hosted a Suhoor banquet for women from the Qatari and Arab society, as well as women from the diplomatic corps accredited to the country.The event was attended by women of the diplomatic community from Arab countries, North America, Latin America, Europe, and Africa. This heritage event also included businesswomen from the Qatari community, as well as social media influencers and Qatar TV.As part of its Ramadan Majlises, host Qutba highlighted the Garangao event and its continuity in the history of Qatari society as a societal legacy and an annual Ramadan tradition. Qutba explained that the goal of this event is to connect with friends and loved ones during the blessed days. In addition, it is also to introduce women from different countries and continents to the Garangao celebration and to reveal what it means to Qatari society.She added: "This night marks the middle of the holy month, so that those who are fasting can sharpen their resolve to complete the remainder of it through fasting, prayer, reading the Qur'an, giving charity, and other acts of worship."Qutba explained that Garangao night represents a special social occasion that promotes the spirit of heritage and community cohesion. Children wear traditional costumes and roam the neighbourhoods singing folk songs, as well as receiving sweets and nuts from residents.She pointed out that the name originates from the sound of nuts clashing inside the cloth bags that children carry as they move from house to house. The pronunciation of the word varies between Gulf countries.Qutba emphasised that Garangao Night also contributes to introducing new generations to the customs of their ancestors and strengthening Qatari national identity. The host explained that Garangao Night remains one of the most beautiful Ramadan occasions that children in Qatar eagerly await, as it brings a blend of joy, generosity, and authenticity. Despite the developments of modern life, Qataris are still keen to revive this beautiful tradition. Reflecting the depth of their connection to their heritage and identity, Qutba concluded her remarks by saying that this event, which brought together women from different continents, is part of "Our Majlis" initiative, founded by Amina Qutba and her husband, advisor Ali al-Zainal.They have transformed their Majlis into a place for cultural exchange and an oasis for showcasing Qatari culture to residents of Qatar, in a family-friendly atmosphere that is free of pretentiousness.The women in attendance praised the important initiative, which allowed them to learn about many aspects of Qatari society that were previously unknown to them. This included Ramadan customs and the daily lives of Qatari women. The focus was on traditional Qatari women's clothing, Ramadan chants, and traditional Ramadan dishes, such as thareed, harees, makbous, and other dishes.