The Tradition of the ‘Mesaharati’ in Ramadan: How It All Began

As the Islamic world welcomes the holy month of Ramadan on March 1, 2025 (1 Ramadan 1446 AH), each country and community embraces its own customs and traditions. However, one tradition remains nearly universal across Muslim-majority countries—the Mesaharati, the iconic figure responsible for waking people up for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) before Fajr prayer.

The Mesaharati is known for roaming the streets at night, often carrying a drum or flute, using rhythmic beats or melodies to awaken the faithful. This practice has deep historical roots in Islamic culture, dating back to the earliest days of Islam.

The First Mesaharati in Islamic History

The first person known to fulfill the role of a Mesaharati was Bilal ibn Rabah, the Prophet Muhammad’s muezzin. According to Al-Yamamah Magazine (2008, Issue 2023), Bilal would walk through the streets calling out to people in his melodic voice, reminding them to eat before fasting, as instructed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Alongside Ibn Umm Maktum, Bilal was responsible for ensuring that people were awake in time for Suhoor.

Later, during the Fatimid era, the tradition took on a more structured form. Caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah ordered that people sleep early after the Taraweeh prayer, and his soldiers would patrol the streets to wake them for Suhoor.

During the Abbasid era, the practice became more refined under Governor Uqba ibn Ishaq, who served as the ruler of Egypt. He personally walked through the streets, calling out:

"O servants of Allah, wake up for Suhoor, for there is blessing in Suhoor!"

The Evolution of the Mesaharati Tradition

Egypt played a significant role in shaping the Mesaharati tradition. Over time, Egyptians introduced the "Bazah", a small drum used to create rhythmic beats while waking people up. Later, the drum evolved into a larger instrument, allowing the Mesaharati to attract more attention. As the practice spread, Mesaharatis began reciting folk poetry and traditional chants, adding an artistic element to their nightly rounds.

By the medieval period, the Mesaharati was often accompanied by a lantern-bearer, as streets were unlit and difficult to navigate. This practice remained essential until modern streetlights eliminated the need for lanterns.

Even today, in many Muslim countries, the Mesaharati continues to be a cherished symbol of Ramadan, connecting the present with centuries of Islamic tradition.