African Thrills

“I hear jungle drums telegraphing the mystic rhythm, urgent, raw.”

“I see the panther ready to pounce and the leopard snarling about to leap.”

These lines from the poem Piano and Drums by Gabriel Okara, capture the simplicity, primitiveness and exoticism of African culture in face of the complexity of western culture symbolized through the ‘piano.’

There is a clash between the piano (West) and the drums (African culture). And the contrast is still evident in the restrained manner of the West and the indigenous demeanour of the Africans,.

Africa is a continent rich in cultural diversity and heritage. The mention of Africa brings to mind an enthralling and captivating continent that is full of colour and life.

Wild drums beating, wacky, tumultuous dancing, eccentric and vibrant clothes of men and women, fiery cuisine such as peri-peri sauce which originated in Africa, bonfire nights and belief in spirits and mythology - all make the African continent worthy of visiting at-least once in a lifetime!

The New Year is celebrated in a fun and jovial manner. There is a lot to celebrate and enjoy! One just needs the eye for it!

The beauty and diversity the continent holds in terms of nature, culture and traditions, makes celebrations all the more exciting and different.

Some ideas:

Egypt situated in the north east of Africa, has a rich history. With pharaohs, pyramids and mummies, it has an interesting and intriguing cultural heritage.

A party can be held inside a pyramid. With the people following these rituals whilst wearing fascinating costumes, the event can be made exciting and boisterous! Moreover, orators can be hired to explain the historical perspective of why the pyramids were made.

Slavery is an important concern in contemporary Africa. Celebrations with the masses disguised in different ‘slaves’ costumes asking for freedom from the chains and shackles of slavery is another way to celebrate. Chanting slogans, hidden under layers of sarcastic humour, the victims of slavery are mocked to meet their demands. The satire creates space for fun and poise simultaneously.

‘The mention of Africa brings to mind an enthralling and captivating continent that is full of colour and life.’

Africa is renowned for soccer. Football or soccer is the most popular sport. Organizing soccer matches nationally and internationally is an exciting affair.

The enthusiasm from the crowd brings about a fervour and zeal that is unmatchable. Soccer, no doubt builds an ambience of thrill and awe!

Africa is abundant in nature and wilderness. The Victoria Falls, Nile, the longest river, the sub-Saharan desert and a diverse variety of animals rule the continent.

Organizing tours to visit the wonders of nature is another relaxing way to celebrate. Retreating into nature and meditating in the heart of the wilderness is a good break from the humdrum and monotony of life.

Madagascar is a small island in the southeast of Africa. The film Madagascar named after the island dwells on a journey of escape undertaken by circus animals. Celebrations can be organized by replaying the film in cinemas to reassert the significance of the beauty of the island and the presence and significance of the animals that are edging towards extinction.

Elephants are the one animal that are highly vulnerable. The sale of elephant ivory tusks is resulting in the animal becoming scarce and is almost near extinction. People should stop hunting elephants. The public can initiate and start a movement to stop the hunting of elephants.

Cheetahs, giraffes and the Nile crocodile are also animals on the extinction list. Not only elephants but all animals must be protected from human poaching if we are to conserve the ecosystem and biodiversity.

Diamonds are plentiful in Africa. However, the fact that they may be cheap is only a misconception. A gifted diamond marks the onset of a new and healthy relationship. Putting behind all rancour and wrath, the diamond is a proof of a new beginning!

celebration

African Thrills

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