Each year, as the fasting period begins, a centuries-old tradition comes to life on Turkish streets. The Ramadan drummers act as guardians of a time-honoured practice.
“This is an old culture that we are trying to preserve for the new generations,” Emir Cosan told Xinhua before setting out for his nightly rounds in the popular Mamak district of Ankara.
The tradition of Ramadan drummers dates back to the Ottoman era, when alarm clocks were a luxury few could afford. As a result, drummers took on the role of waking people up – a practice that continues to this day.
Clad in Ottoman-era attire and carrying large, double-headed drums, drummers walk through neighbourhoods playing rhythmic beats to ensure everyone wakes up in time for sahur.
Hundreds of years later, the tradition persists, particularly in smaller towns and cities. Even in metropolitan areas like Istanbul, the capital city Ankara, and Izmir – where modern life has reshaped many customs – the sound of Ramadan drummers still reverberates through the streets.
Many Ramadan drummers come from families that have upheld the tradition for generations, while others are seasoned musicians. They are usually selected and granted permission by local municipalities or neighbourhood councils.
Drummers rely on the generosity of residents to sustain life. In Turkey, they usually play music at social gatherings in the remaining 11 months of the year; thus, this once-a-year tradition is a vital moment for increasing income.
As Cosan plays his drum, apartment lights flicker on, and residents peek out from doors and windows. In return, residents will give them tips as the custom requires.
Despite its deep-rooted cultural significance, the practice has faced challenges in recent years. In some urban areas, growing complaints over the noises disturbing non-Muslim residents or shift workers have led to restrictions on the practice.
“Sometimes, people ask me to avoid playing near their homes because they say it is too loud; others appreciate this behaviour,” Cosan said.
Hakan Gocer, who has been a Ramadan drummer for 15 years, noted the importance of safeguarding this cultural heritage in the face of technology’s growing influence. “Despite smartphones and other technologies, people still like to be woken up by drums.”
For many Turks, the sound of the Ramadan drummer is more than just a wake-up call; it is a symbol of community. In response, some municipalities are organising official Ramadan drumming groups, ensuring the custom is preserved in a respectful and organised manner.
“We are the last representatives of this disappearing practice … people do not seem to attach importance to this tradition as much as they did before,” Cosan concluded.