|
Nigeria festivals owe their origin to the traditional religions of Nigeria. The festivals are being celebrated since the practice of the major religions in Nigeria. The various festivals of Nigeria are celebrated throughout the year and are celebrated with gaiety. These Nigeria festivals are denotative elements of Nigeria culture. Masquerades and dances play an important role in the festivals of Nigeria.
Festivals of Nigeria
Some of the eminent Nigeria festivals are the Eyo, the Shadi, Durbar, Shango and so on.
The Eyo festival is celebrated only by the Lagos people. It is also said to be the precursor of the present day Brazil carnival. All the main roadways are blocked on the Eyo day to allow the procession pass freely. The masquerade starts from Idumota to Iga Idunganran. Those who take part in this festival, pay homage to the Oba of Lagos. Eyo festival is mainly held on the last burial rites of an eminent chief, but is also held when time demands it.
The Sharo or the Shadi festival is derived from the Fulani culture. The word Sharo means flogging. The festival features unmarried men accompanied by beautiful girls to the center ring. Now a challenger starts to whip the opponent and this continues. The mob bursts out in joy and drumming and singing starts accordingly to cheer the fighters. The one wreathing in pain is considered to be the loser and coward.
The Arugungu fishing festival is the annual festival and is the most vibrant compared to the other festivals. The festival is celebrated in the Arugungu town of Kebbit state, one of the tourist attractions. The festival was celebrated as a tribute to Sultan Dan Mu'azu, when he visited the area in 1934. Since then it is celebrated every year around February and March. In this festival local people, armed with fishnets get in the water. They are then accompanied by drummers who with loud beating of their drums drive the fishes to the shallow waters. Canoe racing, fishing bare handedly, diving competitions are also a part of this festival.
The Antilogwu dance is a remarkable art form. The dance is done with the help of foot stomping steps. Great training is needed to perform this dance and is performed in Igbos in the Anambra state.
The Osun festival is celebrated in the Yorubaland and mainly worships Sango, god of thunder. Then the Benin festival is the harvest festival and is celebrated at the end of the monsoon season, when the harvests are gathered.
The Durbar festival showcases the horsemanship of the people. Durbar means military parade. The Emir used to invite the nationals to exhibit their horsemanship and valor. Since then it has become a respectable festival. Today the Katsina Durbar is the most remarkable and glorious.
The Nigeria festivals have become the tradition of Nigeria, worth seeing. Besides, there are several other local festivals celebrated with gaiety and fun.
|
