Juha’s legacy discussed at Sharjah forum

sharjah — Over a dozen intellectuals examined popular Arabic fictional character Juha’s literary and cultural inspiration during a round-table discussion on day two of the Sharjah International Narrators Forum (SINF).

Held during the Cultural Café, the discussion, titled ‘The Authenticity of Hodja’s Character and Heritage’, and chaired by Lebanese cinematic figure, Jan Hajjar, focused on Juha’s use of wits, mockery and feigning of foolishness in dayto-day life.

Qatari university lecturer, Dr Rabiah Al Kawaari, said: “Oral literature is very significant in Arab society, and Juha has certainly made a great contribution to its enrichment through his wit and intelligence.”

The panel zeroed in on the need to preserve Juha’s character and narration via cinematic and theatrical productions

Director of Arabian Heritage Centre, Aisha Rashid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, said: “Every community has its own Juha, and in this edition of the forum, we wanted to emphasise Juha’s importance in popular heritage.”

Mani bu Naama, director of heritage affairs, said: “The aim of the cafe is to document the heritage of these contemporary ‘Johuu’ characters and maintain them.

“We want to educate future generations on the significance of Arab folklore and help them see its beauty.”

reporters@khaleejtimes.com