This evening was to be a unique experience – a snip party……
First of all, (after a lazy day in the sun and assisting Huseyin repair some solar powered lights – there is a lot of “make do and mend” cottage industry in TRNC, on everything !!!) it was a meal for three at the Destiny Deniz restaurant, owned/run by Huseyin’s cousin. Very nice.
Then off to the big wicked city – Girne/Kyrenia. There, in what is usually one of the fresh food market halls, was a complete party going on, including Turkish band, singer, etc. All age groups – even the city Mayor turned up. Several hundred guests, all of whom made a financial contribution to the family involved and the celebration fund.
The occasion ? Celebration of a circumcision. This is a BIG DEAL in Turkish family life and generally happens before school age, according to Islamic and traditional points of view. It has to be celebrated accordingly.
The day of the sünnet (as it’s called) is a big celebration for Turkish families, marking the first step in their son’s passage from boyhood to man. The boy dresses up in traditional costum, often complete with a beaded crown and white satin cape, reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire.
This guy was only 3/4 years old. The actual deed had been done a few days previously. Here he is in all his glory…….
Big family do, so I met Huseyin’s brother for the first time and also his mum, who was all dressed up for the occasion.
The parents were sort of enthroned ( see below), ready to greet guests, as per tradition. There was dancing – of course ! Huseyin does like his dancing…….
