Muscat – Muscat Nights Festival isn’t a place just for entertainment but a celebration of Oman’s cultural heritage, offering a platform for traditional crafts that have shaped the nation’s identity. Artisans at Naseem Park, who keep centuries-old traditions alive, are showcasing their skills to visitors and inspiring the next generation.
Among the crafts featured is the intricate art of palm frond weaving. Ibrahim bin Khamis al Balushi, a skilled artisan from Suwaiq, has dedicated his life to preserving this ancient craft. “I started this profession at a young age,” Balushi said. “My grandfather taught me this craft, just as I am teaching my children now.”
Using al khaws (palm leaves), zawr (stripped palm branches) and palm fibre, Balushi creates items such as mats, food storage boxes (thama), perfume baskets and traditional trays (al surood). “The quality of the products depends on the type of palm tree used,” he explained. Balushi emphasised the fact that the craft requires patience, precision and dedication.
The festival has been instrumental in supporting artisans like Balushi. “There is great demand for these products, especially among foreign visitors,” he noted. “We need more exhibitions to support our craft and to encourage young Omanis to preserve these traditions.”
Another highlight of the festival is a display of making traditional fishing nets, a craft deeply rooted in Omani maritime culture. Saeed bin Rashid al Yahyaei, a fisherman from Suwaiq, has been making fishing nets since childhood. “My father taught me this craft. It demands a great deal of patience,” he said.
The intricate process involves spinning yarn using a tool called ‘dileep’ and weaving nets of various sizes, including large al jarif nets that require teamwork.
Yahyaei has demonstrated his craft at cultural festivals in Oman and abroad. He considers Muscat Nights Festival a vital platform. “It allows us to showcase our products, interact with visitors and share our heritage,” he said. “Foreign visitors often admire our work and take photos with us.”
Both Balushi and Yahyaei are keen to preserve Oman’s traditional crafts for future generations. Through their participation in Muscat Festival Nights, they are ensuring that these age-old crafts continue to thrive, keeping Oman’s cultural heritage alive and relevant.
© 2021 Apex Press and Publishing. All Rights Reserved. Powered by Mesdac