By Shamsudeen Abubakar
In the Nigerian Hausa communities, Ramadan is not just a time of fasting and prayer, it is a season of stories, laughter, and vibrant cultural expression. Among the cherished traditions that breathe life into these sacred nights is “Tashe,” an age-old performance art that transforms streets into stages, children into storytellers, and communities into one big family.
The term “Tashe” means “to wake up” in Hausa. In its earliest form, it was a playful yet purposeful tradition designed to rouse people for Sahur (the pre-dawn meal). But Tashe was never just about waking people — it awakened minds, ignited creativity, and strengthened the communal spirit.
However, as the second ten days of Ramadan knock on the door, the sound of Tashe fills the air. Young boys and girls, adorned in colourful costumes, parade through neighborhoods, stopping at homes and market stalls to perform. Their voices rise in spirited songs, their feet move in rhythmic dances, and their words—woven with humor, wisdom, and satire which carry lessons that span generations.
In the flickering performance of Tashe, elders watch with smiles, recalling the days when they too played these roles, their youthful voices once had been in the same alleys. Tashe is not just entertainment; it is a bridge between the past and the present, a ritual that binds the young and the old in shared memories and collective joy.
For children, it’s a moment of pride —the chance to showcase their talent, to be seen and heard. For the elderly, it’s a return to a time when life was simpler, when values were passed through songs, and when laughter was a community affair.
Moreover, Tashe carries deep social messages. The performance touches on morality, the duty to care for the elderly, and the importance of kindness. One of the most touching performances, “Tsohon da Gemu (The Bearded Old Man), tells the story of an aging man struggling to find help. As he walks through the village, the performers sing and urge the people to support him, reminding the audience that the elderly should never be forgotten.
Other performances challenge the societal wrongs — some speak against domestic violence, while others hold a mirror to political corruptions. One particularly daring Tashe portrayed a corrupt parliament member, exposing his greed. Though authorities banned it, the performance had already left its mark, proving that Tashe is not just an art form but a voice of the people.
Adaptation to Modern Times
With modernity reshaping traditions, Tashe has evolved. Today, its themes stretch beyond the old stories to reflect contemporary issues— poverty, governance, and even technology. The settings have changed, the challenges are different, but the essence remains: Tashe is a celebration of identity, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of community.
Though some worry that urbanization and changing lifestyle threaten its survival, Tashe continues to reinvent itself. As long as there are voices willing to sing, feet ready to dance, and hearts eager to listen, this treasured tradition will never fade.
This report is published as part of the writer’s internship with Nollywire, facilitated by the National Association of Campus Journalists(NACJ), Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.