Mogadishu (AX) — In an ever-evolving world, certain traditions stand resilient, echoing the wisdom of ages past. Among these venerable customs is the art of Qasaa’id recitations—a practice that has been nurtured and cherished for decades by Sheikh Abdirahman Sheekh Dandaawi. This captivating tapestry of poetic hymns, dedicated to the Prophet Muhammad, unfolds in serene harmony during the sacred nights of Ramadan and the vibrant Mawlid celebrations.
Amidst the rhythmic heartbeats of Djibouti lies a humble enclave in Karte Seet, known as Maqaam. It is here that Sheikh Dandaawi, a guardian of this spiritual tradition, has sown the seeds of his art. As he prepares to bestow his legacy upon his son, we witness the tender weaving of history with future aspirations, ensuring that the luminous art of Qasaa’id echoes through time.
Sheikh Dandaawi’s journey as a leader of Qasaa’id began in 1999, a significant year that also marked the inauguration of Ismaïl Omar Guelleh as Djibouti’s president. However, the roots of this sacred tradition delve much deeper, dating back to a time when his father led similar recitations, having learned from Sheikh Jaama of Dire Dawa. “Our Maqaam has existed for 80 years. My father led it before me, learning from Sheikh Jaama. He moved from Dire Dawa to Djibouti, and we settled here in 1977. I took over in 1992,” Dandaawi recalls, painting a vivid picture of the familial and cultural lineage that has shaped his path.
As if following an invisible thread that binds generations, Dandaawi observes as his son embraces the same calling. “My son is ready. He has learned my compositions and is now undergoing training to perfect them,” he states, his voice tinted with a father’s pride and a mentor’s hope. His son’s journey mirrors his own, perpetuating a cycle of devotion and artistry.
The melodic structure that wends its way through these recitations is an eloquent evolution of Somali poetic chants—an art refined through countless generations. Dandaawi enlightens us, “Our ancestors developed the foundation. They sang in Siigaad, a style we later refined into what we use today.”
Among the myriad verses that elevate the souls of listeners, the following lines stand beloved and familiar:
“Yaa Nabii Salaam Calayka, Yaa Rasuul Salaam Calayka, Yaa Xabiib Salaam Calayka, Salawaatulaa Calayka.”
The translation resonates with a universal reverence: “O Prophet, peace be upon you. O Messenger, peace be upon you. O Beloved, peace be upon you. Blessings of Allah be upon you.”
The cultural landscape of Djibouti’s Qasaa’id tradition has been shaped and enriched by numerous celebrated poets and composers. Figures such as Mohamud “Daa’uus,” Dr. Ababe, and the prominent lyricist Abdiqeys have contributed to this rich tapestry. Their work is more than mere performance—it’s a deeply rooted religious tradition that pervades the air during Ramadan and Mawlid celebrations.
Dandaawi notes, “During Ramadan, people in Djibouti listen to Qasaa’id, whether from me or my colleague Omar Aadan Bogsiiye.” Yet, beyond the artistic offerings, his Maqaam sessions hold a timeless rhythm—weekly Quran recitations. Every Thursday, ten members come together to recite the Quran, each reading three Juz’, completing the 30-chapter text in a single breath. This shared endeavor is a testament to their collective dedication and faith.
Though Djibouti cradles the soul of his recitations, Sheikh Dandaawi’s voice has reached beyond its borders, touching hearts in other Somali-speaking regions such as Hiis and Maydh. His aspirations now set sail toward Mogadishu, where he hopes to introduce his revered Qasaa’id recitations to a new audience, bridging centuries-old tradition with fresh ears.
With files from the BBC Somali Service
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring
