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As the holy month of Ramadan descends upon Istanbul, a centuries-old tradition echoes through the city’s winding streets and bustling neighbourhoods. Clad in traditional Ottoman-style attires, the city’s Ramadan drummers embark on their nightly rounds, beating their drums in a rhythm that cuts through the pre-dawn stillness.

Long before modern alarm clocks and technological conveniences, the drummers played a vital role in rousing Muslims for the pre-dawn meal, known as suhoor, before the day’s fast commences. With their distinctive drumbeats and melodic chants, the drummers are an integral part of Istanbul’s Ramadhan tradition that has endured for centuries.

These dedicated drummers, known as “mahyacılar” or “davulcular,” play a vital role in preserving the custom for generations. As the clock strikes 3:30 a.m., they emerge from the shadows, their drums slung across their backs, and their voices carrying the timeless call to prayer. Their journey begins at the local mosque, where they gather in a circle, offering silent prayers before embarking on their nightly rounds.

Enduring the chilly nights and weaving through the maze of alleyways, the drummers’ rhythmic beats are a familiar and comforting sound for Istanbulites. Their drums, often adorned with intricate patterns and calligraphic inscriptions, are more than just instruments – they are vessels carrying the weight of history and tradition.

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They chant a unique blend of Arabic and Turkish, carry a message of reverence and invitation. “Awake, believers, and partake in the blessings of suhoor,” they call out, their voices resounding through the stillness of the night.

One such drummer, Mehmet Aydın, has been following in his father’s footsteps for over two decades. “This tradition is more than just a job,” he says, his voice tinged with pride. “It’s a sacred duty passed down from generation to generation, connecting us to our ancestors and reminding us of the rich tapestry of our culture.”

Aydın’s sentiments are echoed by his fellow drummer, Ahmet Yılmaz, whose family has been part of this tradition for over a century. “When I beat my drum, I feel a sense of continuity, as if I’m carrying the torch for those who came before me,” he explains. “It’s a humbling experience, knowing that our rhythms have resonated through the streets of Istanbul for centuries.”

The drummers’ dedication extends beyond their nightly rounds. Many of them craft their own drums, meticulously selecting the materials and applying intricate designs that have been passed down through generations. This attention to detail reflects the deep reverence they hold for their craft and the tradition they uphold.

As the sun begins to peek over the horizon, the drummers’ beats fade into the morning bustle, their duty for the night fulfilled. Yet, their impact lingers, a reminder of the city’s enduring connection to its rich heritage and the unwavering spirit of its people.

In a rapidly changing world, Istanbul’s Ramadan drummers stand as guardians of a cherished tradition, ensuring that the echoes of the past continue to reverberate through the present and into the future