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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Mohamed, a farmer from the Upper Egypt city of Qena, says, “I participate in El-Mermah events all year, not only in ones for the Prophet Mohamed’s birthday. I train my horse to be a real fighter.” Al-Biirat, Egypt on Sept. 12, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Talaat, who traveled from his farming community near Luxor, says, “I raised and trained this horse myself. I would never sell him or leave him — he’s like my son.” Al-Biirat, Egypt on Sept. 12, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)