Shasha Mahallah
The name "Shasha Mahallah (Arabic:شاشة محلة)" is derived from two key components. "Shasha (Arabic:شاشة)" is often interpreted as meaning "small" or "little" in Arabic, suggesting a sense of smaller scale. "Mahallah (Arabic:محلة)" is an Arabic word meaning "neighborhood" or "district," indicating a specific area within a town or city. Together, "Shasha (Arabic:شاشة) Mahallah (Arabic:محلة)" can be understood as "small neighborhood" or "little district," reflecting the cultural and historical significance of this area in Karimnagar[1]. Similar to the neighborhood of Barkas, in Hyderabad which is also known for its rich Arab heritage.[2]
Shasha Mahallah | |
|---|---|
  Shasha Mahallah Location in India | |
| Coordinates: 18°25′48″N 79°08′25″E / 18.429863°N 79.140389°ECoordinates: 18°25′48″N 79°08′25″E / 18.429863°N 79.140389°E Fatal error: The format of the coordinate could not be determined. Parsing failed. | |
| Country |  India |
| State | Telangana |
| District | Karimnagar |
| Metro | Karimnagar |
| Established | Early 20th Century |
| Founded by | Janab Shaikhaan Bin Shaikh Saleh Sahab |
| Government | |
| • Body | Karimnagar Municipal Corporation |
| Languages | |
| • Official | Arabic, Urdu |
| Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
| PIN | 505001 |
| Vehicle registration | TS |
| Lok Sabha constituency | Karimnagar |
| Vidhan Sabha constituency | Karimnagar |
| Planning agency | Karimnagar Municipal Corporation |
| Website | telangana |
History
Shasha Mahallah,[3] located in Karimnagar, originally serving as the barracks for the Arab forces stationed in the region. While it was not officially designated as barracks, it served this purpose informally, as most Arabs in the area were part of the Nizam's Army. The neighborhood was established by Janab Shaikh Saleh Bin Shaikhaan Sahab on his private estate, with the vision of fostering unity within the Arab community.
Culture
The culture of Shasha Mahallah[4]reflects the warmth and hospitality characteristic of Arab traditions. The local community, known as Chaush, is known for its Mehmaan Nawazgi (Welcoming Nature), and strong sense of togetherness. Social gatherings and communal events are common, fostering a close-knit atmosphere among residents. This culture emphasizes the importance of family, community support, and shared values, creating a vibrant and cohesive society.
Attire
Arab Lungi
The Arab lungi izaar in Arabic (إِزَار), also known as Maʿawaz (مَعَوَز), Futah (فُوطَة), Wizar (وِزَار), Maqtab (مَقْطَب) is a traditional garment made from high-quality rayon fabric on handlooms. It is known for its softness and comfort, making it suitable for the hot climate of the region. The lungi is stitched in the middle and is designed to be round, allowing for ease of movement. Due to its craftsmanship and the quality of material used, the Arab lungi is relatively expensive.
Taiban
In contrast to the lungi, the taiban is a rectangular piece of cloth that is open at all four corners and is not stitched in the middle. Generally made from a thicker fabric, the taiban offers a different style of draping, allowing it to be worn in various ways. This garment is favored for its versatility and is commonly worn.
Jubbah
The jubbah, also referred to as thawb, kandura, or dishdasha, is a long, flowing robe worn by men. It is characterized by its modest design and is typically ankle-length, providing coverage while allowing for comfort. The jubbah can be made from various materials, depending on the occasion and the weather. It is often adorned with embroidery or patterns and is a staple in formal and religious settings.
Mushajarah
The mushajarah, also known as ghutrah or shemagh, is a traditional headscarf worn by men. Made from lightweight cotton, it is usually white or checkered in design. The mushajarah is worn to protect the head and face from the sun and dust. This garment serves not only practical purposes but also symbolizes cultural identity and heritage.
Footwear
The traditional footwear associated with Barkas and Shasha Mahallah is known as naal in Arabic but is more commonly referred to as Arba Chappal in the Deccan. These sandals are typically made from leather and are characterized by their durability and comfort. They are designed to complement traditional attire and are often worn during both casual and formal occasions[5]
Cuisine
The cuisine of Shasha Mahallah is a reflection of its Yemeni heritage, enriched by various influences. It features of traditional dishes, introduced by the Chaush or Arab community.
Notable dishes include Marag, Murtabaq, Shorba, Harira, Mandi, Kabsa. Other popular items are Tas Kabab, Lukhmi, Sheer Khurma, Qubani Ka Meetha and Malida.
Shasha Mahallah also showcases Arabic dishes such as Majboos, and Shawarma. A local specialty is a sweet version of Harees[6]
See also
References
- ↑ Omar Khalidi, The Arabs of Hadramawt in Hyderabad in Mediaeval Deccan History, eds Kulkarni, Naeem and de Souza, Popular Prakashan, Bombay, 1996, pg 63
- ↑ Shasha Mahallah from Telugu Wikipedia
- ↑ name="Mediaeval Deccan history">Mediaeval Deccan History, eds Kulkarni, M A Naeem and de Souza, Popular Prakashan, Bombay, 1996, pg 63, https://books.google.com/books?id=O_WNqSH4ByQC&pg=PA63
- ↑ Boxberger, Linda. On the Edge of Empire: Hadhramawt, Emigration, and the Indian Ocean, 1880s-1930s. 2002. State University of New York Press
- ↑ Shasha Mahallah from Urdu Wikipedia
- ↑ "In search of haleem in Hyderabad and finding Yemen".
External links
Further reading
- حيدرأباد والحضارمة والمحاولات العبثية لطمس هويتها الإسلامية, Al-Ayyam (Yemen), 14 May 2007
- Ababu Minda Yimene, An African Indian community in Hyderabad, Cuvillier Verlag, 2004, pg 201
This article "Shasha Mahallah" is from Wikipedia. The list of its authors can be seen in its historical and/or the page Edithistory:Shasha Mahallah. Articles copied from Draft Namespace on Wikipedia could be seen on the Draft Namespace of Wikipedia and not main one.
