DesiEvite Blog

Thursday, August 16, 2012 | 5:03:00 AM

Ramadan is considered to be the most holy and blessed month. It traditionally begins with a new moon sighting. Ramadan is associated with a mysterious tradition. The tradition is very old and some believed that it started in the Fatimid era. For Muslims the Ramadan celebrations include the display of Fawanees (plural for Fanous). People hang different types of pretty lanterns out in the streets, balconies, shops and mosques. The kids were associated with these lanterns. They were fascinated with these and used to wander the streets. In addition to that they used to go to different houses asking for sweets and nuts. 

Stories associated with Ramadan lanterns (Fanous)
This story is associated with Fatimid era. Fatimid caliph began a search of the new moon. He started wandering on the street in the night. At that time there was no electricity. It used to be pretty dark. The small children noticed them. They brought the lanterns from their homes and started walking with him.

Second story states that women were not allowed leave their house except Ramadan but on one condition. They would be followed by little boys carrying a copper Fanous. This action told the public that women are arriving in the market.

Materials Used

Initially the Fanous were made of coloured glass. People used to light candles inside it. These old Fanous have lost their heritage in time but still they are very
popular. These days they are made up of tin, brass and plastic. The battery operated Fanous play music also. Now Fawanees (plural for Fanous) are available in
different shape and sizes. The most popular shapes are minaret, crescent or tree.

Fanous is still one of the beautiful features of Ramadan. Fanous is still very popular in Egypt. One can notice lanterns hanging out in the streets, balconies, shops and mosques at the time of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a special time. It doesn’t matter about the origin of Fanous, about how it looks but it is one of the features of Ramadan month. It has moved from
generation to generation.

Posted By Desievite Admin