Horses, Drums, and Devotion: The Kano Durbar Festival in All Its Glory

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July 31, 2024

Durbar Festival is a historic horse-riding celebration that is held in the lands of traditional rulers, especially the Emirs. It is also known as "Hawan Sallah" in northern Nigeria.

The Durbar festival is an equestrian, cultural, and religious event that has been celebrated for centuries as an integral component of Arewa (Northern Nigerian) Hausa culture. Horses were employed in battle to defend the Emirate for more than 200 years ago. The expectation was for every aristocratic household to provide a regiment to protect the emirate. The regiments assembled for a military parade once a year to show their devotion to the Emir and their preparation for battle atop their horses.

Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, two Muslim holidays, fall on the same day as the festival, which also serves to commemorate the completion of Ramadan.

Celebrating a Legacy on Horseback

The Durbar festival is a vibrant celebration that honors the long history of horses in Hausa culture. These animals, along with camels, were essential for the prosperity of powerful city-states like Kano, Katsina, and Zaria as far back as the 14th century. During the festival, the Emir and his entourage showcase their riding skills in front of hunters, bodyguards, and musicians.

A Gathering of Leaders

The Durbar also serves as an important political event. Chiefs, district heads, and other dignitaries come together in a public square, often near the Emir's palace, to reaffirm the authority of traditional rulers. This public ceremony strengthens the bonds between leaders and the community.

*Horsemen on durbar festival day in Kano State*

The Beauty of Dubar Festival in Kano State.

A grand celebration in Northern Nigeria (Arewa), the Kano Durbar Festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Hausa Kingdom. Renowned as the world's largest procession of colorful horses, it coincides with the Islamic holidays of Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha. During this vibrant display, Kano explodes with color as men and horses adorn themselves in ceremonial attire and parade through the city.

The state comes alive with the beauty of the Durbar Festival. The day unfolds with prayers held outside each town, followed by a magnificent parade of horses. These majestic creatures, adorned for the occasion, make their way to the bustling main plaza in front of the Emir's palace. The festivities culminate in a grand procession through Kano's city center, drawing visitors from far and wide.

The Emir leads the way, accompanied by his retinue of horsemen, musicians, and even artillerymen. This display serves as a powerful symbol of his authority. It culminates in the Jahi race, a thrilling display of horsemanship. Riders from the emirate charge towards the Emir at full speed, then come to a dramatic halt before him. They raise their swords or flags in a gesture of respect before departing.

In a vibrant display of loyalty, the Emir's sons, noblemen, and battalions parade on horseback. Local musicians provide a stirring soundtrack as they parade past, each royal family distinguished by their unique outfits. Billowing robes and turbans in a kaleidoscope of colors create a breathtaking spectacle. Even the youngest princes, barely toddlers, proudly raise their fists in a gesture of "power" alongside their middle-aged brothers. Every member of the Emir's family participates in this grand display of unity.

The village group takes their designated spot next, followed by the Emir and his magnificent entourage. The Emir is saluted by groups of horsemen who sprint across the square at full gallop with swords drawn, passing only a few feet from him. Following the event, the Emir and his chiefs go to the palace, where the drumming, dancing, and singing continue well into the night.

Hawan Daushe

In Kano, Hawan Daushe is a Durbar procession that pays homage to the palace of the emir's mother. It is a durbar procession for residents around the emir's palace. It also avails the people of Kano City an opportunity to see the emir during the Sallah festivities.

The procession passes through various quarters in Kano, including Kabara Quarters, named after the famous 19th-century scholar Mallam Kabara, and Tudun Wizirchi Quarters, where scholars and influential figures lived. The Hawan Daushe, which is an important part of the Durbar celebrations, is a demonstration of the rich cultural heritage of Kano and its people. Tourists and locals alike appreciate it and see it as an expression of the diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria.

*The Emir and royal family parading on their beautified horses*

Symbol of Royal Lineage at The Festival

The procession is strictly men only dressed in magnificent robes and turbans many with one 'ear' or two sticking out denoting their royal lineage.

Turbans

The turban is a symbol of prestige and loyalty. Men attending the Durbar festival come alive in a spectrum of turban colors.

Music and Dancing

A vibrant bazaar of African music explodes at the festival. Here, amidst the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, groups, and individuals decked out in their finest attire showcase their best dance moves.

*Musicians at the Durban festival playing their various musical instruments*

The Dubar Festival in Kano State stands as a vivid testament to the rich cultural tapestry and historical depth of Northern Nigeria. This magnificent celebration, with its roots stretching back over centuries, encapsulates the spirit of the Hausa kingdom through its vibrant displays of horsemanship, traditional regalia, and rhythmic music. As the horses gallop and the drummers beat their rhythms, the Dubar Festival vividly brings to life the enduring heritage and cultural pride of Kano, making it a must-see event that continues to enthrall audiences year after year.