Egypt: Ancient 'zar' ritual puts exorcism on stage
A stage, lights, a mesmerised audience: it looks like an Egyptian folkloric concert, but Umm Sameh is singing to heal the sick by driving out the demons that possess them
Stay updated with breaking news from Umm Sameh. Get real-time updates on events, politics, business, and more. Visit us for reliable news and exclusive interviews.
A stage, lights, a mesmerised audience: it looks like an Egyptian folkloric concert, but Umm Sameh is singing to heal the sick by driving out the demons that possess them
It looks like a concert of Egyptian folk music — a stage, lights and a mesmerized audience — but Umm Sameh is singing to heal the sick by driving out the demons that possess them. The music and dance ritual known as zar, with centuries-old roots in Ethiopia and Sudan, is traditionally performed to ward off or exorcise jinn or evil spirits. “We’re not quacks or witches,” said Umm Sameh, aged in her 70s, with coal-lined eyes, large hoops in her ears and gold bracelets on her arms. “The singing is spiritual and brings out negative energies,” the lead singer of the Mazaher
A stage, a highlight, a mesmerised viewers: it seems like a traditional live performance however Um Sameh is singing to heal the sick by driving out the
The Zar ritual has seen better days, but an Egyptian band has taken upon itself the mission of keeping this ritual alive.
Highlight interviews and performances from WOMEX 2021 in Porto, Portugal.