Ghabga

Ghabga is a nightly tradition during Ramadan where friends, family and colleagues gather to eat and smoke sheesha and to just enjoy fellowship. Though not observed by everyone each night, it is a gathering which is highly festive. Ghabga is typically held in massive tents. Beverages include juices, coffess, teas, etc. while the food is generally authentic cuisine. Hummus, falafel, dates etc are spread out in a wonderful buffet arrangement. The food is exceptionally tasty. Sheesha, also known as 'hubbly bubbly' is a water pipe used for flavored tobacco coals. These are apple, mint, strawberry, and grape flavors. It is a mild smoke and everyone gets into the habit. Just like holidays in the US, these Ghabgas are held as work gatherings. However, because Muslims have fasted all day and break their fast at Iftar, when the sun goes down, these events are late in the evening. Ours started at 9:30 and lasted well past midnight. Staff will undoubtedly be late in the office. Throughout the evening, we were serenaded by a traditional arabic singer. The beat and sound were very festive.

Early in the evening.

Ramla showing us the proper technique for using a sheesha.

Enjoying sheesha...don't worry, it is only tobacco.  Karan doesn't always look that sleepy.  And it IS REALLY just tobacco.

Do you see a common theme?  Sheesha...

Firas enjoying sheesha.

Staff enjoying the evening.

Bushra improving the qaulity of this photo exponentially.

Some of the females on the team, ready for sheesha!

Vikas can be counted on for colorful shirts.

Ordering sheesha.

Getting ready for the fun.

The cloud just gets bigger and bigger.  Almost everyone had a sheesha going.