Tbourida in Morocco
With the arrival of summer, Moroccans increasingly engage with the art of Tbourida at various parties, festivals, and seasonal events, which number over a hundred. This traditional equestrian performance has become a hallmark of these celebrations, infused with deep cultural rituals and symbols.
Tbourida, which dates back to the 15th century, derives its name from the gunpowder fired during the parades. It consists of festive rituals rooted in ancient traditions, especially prominent in Moroccan regions with a Bedouin influence.
Moroccans celebrate numerous occasions—such as weddings, seasons, aqiqah, and circumcision—with Tbourida performances. These events weave together rich symbolism, combining elements of carnival and folklore, where clothing, music, dance, horsemanship, and fire come together in a harmonious display.
This ancient practice is not a modern invention but a folkloric ritual intertwined with sacred and secular traditions. It features songs and chants that evoke heroic tales and celebrate gunpowder and rifles, culminating in a final shot after intense training sessions to prepare the horses and demonstrate the riders’ control.
Tbourida is a vital part of Moroccan heritage, evoking memories of the past. Horse owners trained for this art are seen as elite within their tribes, possessing significant experience and status.
During performances, cavalry teams, known as “Bowardi,” are led by an elderly sheikh called “Al-Alam.” The knights circle around him, chanting phrases reminiscent of the “Jihad movement” before firing their rifles in unison. A well-coordinated shot earns applause, while disorganized firing draws frustration from both the leader and the audience.
The art demands rigorous training to ensure that horses can perform in sync. The “flag” organizes the team at the starting line, issuing signals to control the horses. The final shot from the chief’s rifle marks the conclusion of each display, after which the riders return to start anew.
Maintaining a horse’s fitness requires diligent care, training, and feeding, which can become financially burdensome, particularly during droughts when feed prices rise. Many worry about the potential decline of Tbourida, as its preservation relies on dedicated farmers in rural areas who lack support from official institutions.
There are now festivals dedicated to Tbourida, elevating it beyond mere seasonal entertainment. Women’s cavalry teams have also emerged, reflecting the growing interest and participation in this traditional art form, which continues to be celebrated across generations.