Alheda’a, oral traditions of calling camel flocks
In Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, Alheda’a is an oral polyphonic expression.
The talent is passed on from generation to generation of practitioners, allowing them to communicate with camel flocks, which are trained to respond to the sounds.
Men and women practice Alheda’a, a free form of expression inspired by prose and poetry. Often, practitioners use a unique repository of sounds and expressions that camels are accustomed to hearing.
In a desert environment, herders guide flocks to new pastures to feed using Alheda’a, steering them in the right direction.
Children learn the sounds of Alheda’a and their meanings by observation and participation in steering the flock with family members. More responsibilities are granted as they become of age to practice the skills and techniques learned needed to steer the herd.
The responsibility of Alheda’a gives practitioners a special role within their tribe.
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Alheda’a, oral traditions of calling camel flocks