Coastweek.com reports that Tajik students at the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa transported their audience to the “Roof of the World” – as their native region of Pamir Mountains is famously known – through their rich, cultural performances on March 18, 2017.
The event showcased Tajik culture while focusing on the theme of “Novruz”, which refers to the Persian New Year that marks the spring equinox and is one of the major festivals celebrated in Tajikistan.
It is also observed across Iran, several Central Asian countries, and the Caucasus.
The Tajik students at the Academy, along with their mentor, teacher, and event organizer Ms. Rukhshona Sinavbarova, recreated the feel of Novruz through the traditional music featured in the event and the food served, which included pilaf, fresh fruits, dried fruits and nuts, and bread.
The traditional costumes and jewelry worn by the student ushers also added much color and authenticity to the celebration.
The student performances showcased cultural dances, practices such as the traditional style of courting, marriage ceremonies, and greeting techniques.
One of the most appealing themes featured in the student performances was that of Sufism, a mystical interpretation of Islam that is intertwined with religious and cultural practices across the Middle East, South Asia, and Central Asia.
Year 12 student Alisher Kukanbekov and Year 10 student Nekbakht Alibekova took the audience into a trance with their mesmerizing Sufi dance, and one of the youngest performers, Isminoz Jamshedova of Year 7 tugged on everyone’s heartstrings by passionately singing the Persian poet Hafiz Shirazi’s verses.
The intricate details of the decorations, giveaways, food, music, and powerful performances required months of planning and preparation.
The show was a proud celebration of Tajik culture, and relayed an important message through student monologues about the importance of identity and connection with one’s cultural heritage.
The Aga Khan Strand of Pluralism, one of the focal points of the curriculum at the Academy, encourages students to celebrate diversity.
The Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa is a day/residential school for students aged 6-18. It is part of the Aga Khan Academies network and is an IB World School. It is the first in the network of Aga Khan Academies established by His Highness the Aga Khan. As with all the Aga Khan Academies, the Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa is committed to excellence in all aspects of education. This commitment includes the academic curriculum as well as the campus where students live and learn.
