Khamoro parade, an annual festival held in the Czech capital – Prague – is a week-long celebration featuring the traditions and culture of the Romani people. Weekly Echo’s columnist, Nesha Pany, not only gets a glimpse of the celebration held recently, but comes away inspired by the story behind the festival.
PRAGUE: The word Khamoro originates from the Romani language, which translates to “sunshine”. The parade is part of a week-long celebration of life in all its colours, rhythm, dance and music of the Romani people.
Founded to address social tensions and deep-rooted prejudice against the Roma community in the Czech Republic, the festival has now been running for 28 years. It brings communities together while providing a platform to preserve and celebrate Roma traditions and culture.
Historically, Roma communities have faced discrimination across Europe. In the Czech Republic, these challenges intensified following the fall of communism, when many lost their jobs, educational opportunities, and became increasingly marginalised.
Khamoro is also a symbol of resilience. It honours the Romani people and their heritage that has endured despite generations of exclusion, while creating space for the continued celebration of their culture.
–WE