File photo by Qassim Rahmatullah / The Peninsula
Doha: Iftar cannon (Midfaa Iftar) is one of the essential Qatari Ramadan features as it dates back to Qatar’s establishment.
Traditionally, cannons were fired to announce the start and end of the fast long before the invention of loudspeakers and other digital gadgets. Though the cannons aren’t being used anymore, the authorities have kept them as part of the heritage to promote cultural values.
The cannon firing ceremony was temporarily suspended in many places to avoid crowd gathering as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, it is still a thrill to watch virtually or on TV.
Children particularly enjoy the ceremony, but it is popular will all the people. Watching it on Qatar TV is a source of joy and teaches children about their traditional heritage.
Before the pandemic, many parents would bring their children daily to see the Iftar cannons, creating memorable moments as they are an integral part of the Ramadan heritage.
People used to visit the cannons in public places like Souq Waqif, Katara, Muhammad Ibn Abdulwahhab Grand Mosque, and Souq Waqif Al Wakrah.
The cannons are still the same but have become more modern with time and scientific advancement.
