When last did you attend a vibrant Queh-Queh? It has probably been a while since this pre-marital celebration has hardly taken place.
ORIGINS AND HISTORY
Originating from Africa, this lively gathering of family and friends is a blend of songs, dances, rituals, and traditions. These activities are performed in honour of the couple embarking on their marital journey.
Historically, African weddings were replete with traditions and rituals. However, the introduction of slavery and European colonisation in the Americas disrupted these practices.
Africans in Guyana, struggling to maintain their cultural identity, adapted by holding their traditional wedding celebrations in the days or evenings preceding the European-style weddings.
Respect is fundamental in African culture, and the Queh-Queh celebration is no exception. It emphasises respect for ancestors, elders, and guests.
During this celebration, respect is also shown through adherence to its rules and rituals.
RULES AND RITUALS
A well-organised Queh-Queh is guided by specific rules and rituals:
- Queh-Queh na ga bad word: Vulgarity and profanity are permitted but only within the context of the celebration.
- Batto: Indicates a change in the song and leadership.
- Encore: Requests the repetition of a song.
- U nah com a Queh-Queh fo sit down. U com fo sing and dance: Encourages active participation in the songs and dances.
- Children not allowed: Due to the mature content, gestures, and lyrical content.
Rituals like libation, symbolising gratitude to ancestors, and the symbolic “buying of the bride” through negotiation and dowry payment, are integral to this pre-marital celebration.
DANCE AND SONGS
The Queh-Queh dance involves circular movements, foot stomping, hand clapping, and gestures that dramatise the lyrics of the songs.
The leader guides the celebration, singing songs that invoke humour, satire, advice, and instructions.
Popular songs like “Good Nite Hay” and “Lie Down Gal” are sung in a call-response format, with room for improvisation.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Food and drinks are essential components of this celebration, with hosts expected to provide traditional dishes and beverages.
Some common foods include Cook-up rice, Fried fish, Metagee, and Conkie for dessert. Traditional drinks like Mauby, Sorrel, and various rums are also served, adding to the festive atmosphere.
I can recall attending Queh-Queh many years ago, and the atmosphere was always enjoyable. However, in recent times, there has been a growing concern about it losing its identity in Guyana.
I believe one of the main challenges facing this event is the influence of modernisation and globalisation. As Guyana becomes more interconnected with the rest of the world, traditional practices like this may be seen as outdated or less relevant to younger generations. This can lead to a decline in participation and interest in the event.
Article Reference
- https://www.demvillage.org/quehquehnight
- https://guyanachronicle.com/2017/09/04/queh-queh-nite-lights-guyana-folk-festival/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/blackladies/comments/ym36l5/black_traditions_kwekwe_or_queh_queh_night_in/
