Hajusam

Hajusam, also known as *Hajusam Festival* or *Hajusam Day*, is a traditional festival celebrated primarily in the southern regions of the Philippines, particularly in the provinces of Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and parts of Basilan. The term "Hajusam" originates from the Arabic word *Hajj*, meaning pilgrimage, reflecting its roots in Islamic culture and the annual Hajj in Mecca. The festival commemorates the end of the Hajj season and honors the return of Muslim pilgrims who have completed their spiritual journey.

Hajusam is typically observed in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, following the Islamic lunar calendar, which usually corresponds to the months of September or October in the Gregorian calendar. The celebration is marked by a series of cultural and religious activities that span several days. One of the most prominent events is the *Hajusam Parade*, where participants, often dressed in traditional attire, gather to reenact the Hajj journey. This includes processions, music, and dance performances that depict scenes from the pilgrimage, such as the circumambulation of the Kaaba in Mecca.

The festival also features communal feasts, known as *lebaran*, where families and friends come together to share meals and exchange gifts. This period is characterized by a spirit of unity and generosity, as people visit relatives, offer charity, and seek forgiveness from one another. Religious gatherings, such as sermons and prayers, are central to the observance, reinforcing the festival’s spiritual significance.

Hajusam holds cultural importance as a celebration of faith, heritage, and community. It serves as a reminder of the shared Islamic identity among the people of the region while preserving local traditions. The festival is also an opportunity for cultural exchange, as it attracts visitors from other parts of the Philippines and beyond, who come to experience its unique blend of Islamic and indigenous customs.