Global Voices Online

Mohammed says that Garangao (aka Gergea'an), celebrated on the 14th day of Ramadan (which falls on the 17 October 2005), is special to the Gulf region and is believed to have its roots in the pearl-diving tradition of the region. This evening, children, clad in their traditional clothes, will come out of their homes and knock on every door in their neighbourhood, which will be ready to receive them with sweets and nuts. They collect the goodies in the special cotton bags, hanging loosely from their necks.

Recent Links also in Middle East & North Africa

President Obama sends a message to those celebrating the Persian holiday of Nowruz (Norouz), and in particular to the people and government of Iran. Here is the message in You Tube with Persian subtitles.

Balatarin web community is raising money for Iranian journalist refugees. The goal is to raise 15000 dollars.

Mir-Hussein Mousavi, one of Iranian opposition leader, and his wife, Zahra Rahnavard, used You Tube to deliver his new year,Noruz, message. He called Iranian people will face very difficult economic situation next year and country has been very isolated in international community. He praised “Green Movement” [Iranian opposition movement] and says the struggle goes on.