THE WONDERFUL RAMADHAN BAZAARS

I look forward to the Ramadhan Bazaars during the fasting month.  In Malayasia, the Muslims started their fasting today and will continue to do so for a month. Ramadhan is a month where many Muslims become closer to their God. 

When I was much younger, I do not recall any Ramadhan Bazaars being set up.  I guess this must be a trend which became popular towards the late eighties or the early nineties. Besides the bazaarss, there would also be  stalls selling various foods by the roadsides, fields, market places and even shopping complexes. These stalls operate only during the Ramadhan month and are run by temporary operators. To me this is the second most exciting part of Ramadhan.  The most exciting would be the night when the angels descend on earth to give their blessings to mankind.  It is rather difficult for me to describe the fervour felt by the people going to these bazaars.  One needs to go and be there to get the feel. 

Believe me when I say that the sight that greets one at a bazaar is very colourful.  There are food in all colours, forms and aromas .  Hundreds of dishes originating from different Malaysian states can be found in just one place. Let's see, there is the laksa, 'nasi kandar,' 'nasi kerabu', grilled fish and chicken,  'pasembor', gear box soup, chicken rice and so and so forth. Then there are the colourful desserts and thirst quenching fruit juices that would soothe the parched throats of those who have started fasted from sunrise.

YES!  Ladies and gentlemen, happiness to me is being able to visit the Ramadhan Bazaars and enjoy the array of food sold there.