The Bugja al-`Aruus and the Bugja Maksuura
NUUAR Media’s Tibyaan Labiib Explains
In Sudanese Arabic, the word bugja has many powerful resonances, especially when associated with Sudanese wedding customs. In standard Arabic, baqja generally means a bundle or package wrapped in cloth. It can also refer to a small bundle of belongings or of laundry. The term is also now used for insulating food covers made of padded cloth. Above, definition from Rianne Tamis & Janet Persson’s Sudanese Arabic-English, A Concise Dictionary.
Watch Tibyaan’s engaging 2-minute video below (subtitled in English) to learn how this word has evolved in meaning and the poignant role it played in wedding customs.
Follow NUUAR Media for more fascinating short videos on Sudanese customs and traditions.
For more on Sudanese perfumes, see Karkar, Dilka and Dukhan and The Clove’s Fragrance
For more on Sudanese hijab amulets, see Unfolding Blessings
and for kohl “Who will trace the kohl for our eyes?”
Images above, AI-generated, Imogen Thurbon.
Below, the Turkish bridegroom’s version; bugja al `ariis. Photo, Facebook..
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