In the rural south of Egypt, residents on horseback keep alive the centuries-old art of El-Mermah, a celebratory fencing competition held for the birthdays of holy Islamic figures, and other special occasions. Ahead of the birthday of the Prophet Mohamed, Islam’s holiest figure, photojournalist Hamada Elrasam turned his lens on this cultural tradition in Al-Biirat, a village in the ancient city of Luxor. Words by Elle Kurancid.
Traditional Horse Fencing Competitions Mark Islamic Holidays in Egypt
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Dozens of performers assemble on a plot of farmland for the El-Mermah competition. The objective is to tap competitors with a long stick from the back of a galloping horse. In the village of Al-Biirat, Egypt on Sept. 12, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Coming from villages across Upper Egypt, farmers-turned-fencers travel by pickup truck to conserve their horses’ energy for the games ahead, Al-Biirat, Egypt on Sept. 12, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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A local band plays festive songs that cheer on each team, naming both human and horse performers in the song for a tip and the performance of an “equestrian dance” in return, Al-Biirat, Egypt on Sept. 12, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Transforming the field into a theatrical stage or arena, El-Mermah performances offer respite to villagers, most of whom work in local farms, Al-Biirat, Egypt, Sept. 12, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)