Bank Sohar holds grand Qaranqasho celebrations

Muscat: As part of its annual Qaranqasho celebrations, Bank Sohar organised and participated in a number of activities this year marking the occasion with customers, employees, and local communities.
The three different programmes filled with entertainment witnessed large crowds in a true Qaranqasho spirit including a Qaranqasho gathering for customers and the public at Bank Sohar’s branch in the Oman Avenues Mall; another event for employees and their families at the Jungle Restaurant; and finally a bank-sponsored event of the Oman Association for the Disabled.
Commenting on the celebrations, Ahmed Al Musalmi, the chief executive officer of Bank Sohar, said, “Qaranqasho is a very special event for families across the region, and as a community-focused organisation, we consider it our duty to preserve and nurture Oman’s heritage for future generations. With many customers and employees in attendance with their families, Qaranqasho formed a splendid opportunity to enhance the bank’s engagement and sociability with local communities, staff and goodwill associations.”
The bank’s branch in the Oman Avenues Mall was bursting with merriment as families enjoyed fun activities and snapped pictures in the specially designed photo booths. At the heart of the programme was a presentation of traditional songs intoned by groups of children, reflecting the heritage of Qaranqasho passed down through the generations.
Furthermore, the bank hosted a gathering for employees and their families at the Jungle Restaurant in Al Qurum. Bestowing the same joy upon staff and their children, the evening comprised a festive social networking opportunity. Widening its celebrations and involving a larger population segment, the bank also extended its CSR relationships during its annual Qaranqasho celebrations by sponsoring a gathering at the Oman Association for the Disabled. The Qaranqasho themed event saw children take to the stage dressed in colourful costumes, singing and dancing with many visitors from the bank and local communities.
Traditionally observed on the 14th night of the holy month, children across the Gulf celebrate Qaranqasho by visiting neighbours in their community singing songs in customary outfits. Going door-to-door throughout nearby neighbourhoods youngsters collect sweets and halwa, echoing an age-old tradition that used to include makeshift musical instruments. In the past, children would carry seashells instead and beat them together whilst singing Qaranqasho. Traditionally Qaranqasho was a way to reward children for fasting through the first half of Ramadan.