Calabash (Kwolat)

 *Calabash (Kwolat)*.

✍🏾 *Madalla Kadiri Dinki, Zaar Activist*.

*Introduction*:

Calabash (Kwolat) is a versatile fruit that comes from the calabash tree (Lagenaria siceraria). It's also known as bottle gourd or white gourd. Calabash (Kwolat)is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including Nigeria, where it's used in various ways.

In some cultures, calabash  (Kwolat) is used as a food source. The young fruit is edible and can be cooked in a variety of ways, such as boiling, roasting, or sautéing. It's a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

In Zaar land Calabash (Kwolat) was  used as a natural container or vessel. When the fruit is mature and dry, it can be hollowed out and used as a bowl, cup, or even a musical instrument!

In addition, calabash has cultural and symbolic significance in Zaar society. It's often associated with abundance, fertility, and creativity.

*Cultural Significance of Calabash (Kwolat)*.

The calabash (Kwolat) has significant cultural importance in  Zaar land. Here are some examples:

1. *Symbolism*: In Zaar cultures, the calabash (Kwolat) represents fertility, abundance, and prosperity.

2. *Musical instrument*: The calabash (Kwolat) is used as a resonator in various musical instruments. 

3. *Food and drink*: Calabashes (Kwolat) was used as bowls for serving food and drinks, like Du  (a fermented corn drink) etc. 

4. *Art and craftsmanship*: Calabashes  (Kwolat) were  decorated and used as ornaments, showcasing artistic skills and cultural heritage.

5. *Spiritual significance*: In Zaar traditional religions, calabashes (Kwolat) was  used in rituals and ceremonies for communication with ancestors and the divine.

6. *Social gatherings*: in Zaar land Calabashes (Kwolat) in the olden days was  often used to serve guests during social gatherings, symbolizing hospitality and community.

7.  *Calabash (Kwolat)* represent wisdom, wit, and resourcefulness.

8. *Measurement*: during the era of trade by barter in Zaar land Calabash (Kwolat)  was use as a means of measurement, such as Measurement of crops for exchange, measurement of crops for bride price etc.