Traditional Stick Fighting

Luxor doesn't hold many events, not sure why, as we have so many outdoor venues we are almost spoilt for choice! So when an event takes place, I like to go along and enjoy. We currently have the 5th National Event of Sticking, that takes place over 5 days, in Abu El Hagag Square.

Sticking, or 'Racks Be Ela'sa' is one of my most favourite traditions here. A ritualised mock fight between 2 men to show their power in what is the oldest form of Egyptian Martial Art to survive.

Over the years, it has almost become a dance and is practised with music known as 'Tahtib' Instruments including the Mizmar (horn that emits a screechy tone) the Rababa (Similar to a violin) and the Tabla (Drum) all combined to create the classical Upper Egyptian Sound.

Settling down on the dicca facing Luxor Temple, I gasped at what was the perfect backdrop for such a traditional event. Men arrived with perfectly wrapped shash's, crisp galabeyahs that moved gracefully when they walked, making the men appear to 'Float' across the Square. Well maintained moustache's, sticks that symbolise their masculinity and with an air of pride and dignity, they greeted each other majestically.

One of these men was a friend from the village in which I live. He has been sticking all his life and as a younger man, would stay off work to practice and improve his skill. In previous years, he had come 2nd. Last year he came 1st, but he nobly gave the title to an elder. He told me that winning is not important to him, though it is very important that he doesn't lose.

The music began and a team from Sohag started the dancing. Moving around the Square with the musicians, swaying in time with the music, their Asa (Stick) being waved in a figure of 8 across their bodies. Little jumps, knees being lifted and twirls, men of all ages from young boys to the elders.

People have travelled from the Cities of Upper Egypt, including Minya, Asyut, Sohag and Qena to take part in the competition, all to be judged by life long 'Stickers'
Watching avidly, the battle begins, albeit a very respectable and dignified one.

If I am honest, I don't really understand what the judges are looking for or how you win such a competition! I know that you mustn't touch your opponent and if it gets too aggressive, people gently walk up and divide the two. It is such a respectable game.

Stick fighting has been used in the past to settle disputes between members of rival families, mostly in the Egyptian countryside. These dances are very dramatic and are found at most festive occasions, such as weddings, welcoming parties, and harvest festivals.