Die lange Nacht der Tidschani

von Simone Sapia
The jury's description of the nominee: 

"Original story that bring us a surprising information of a trip and meeting of Senegalese Tijanis brotherhood in Italy. Beautiful pictures, we loved the vibrancy of the colours, the photographer achieved to highlight the spirituality of a religious event even when transported to a different context and performed in unusual western locations."

 

Die lange Nacht der Tidschani ist eine Reportage, die während der letzten drei Gamou entstanden ist, die in Conegliano Veneto (im Nordosten Italiens) stattfanden. Seit mittlerweile fast 20 Jahren kommen dort jedes Jahr ca. 7.000 Mitglieder der senegalesischen Tidschani-Bruderschaft ganz Europas zusammen, um gemeinsam an diesem religiösen Fest teilzunehmen.

Die Fotografien unterstreichen den seltsamen Effekt einer religiösen Veranstaltung, die in einem gänzlich fremden Kontext stattfindet; der Moment des individuellen oder gemeinsamen Gebetes findet an zwei Orten statt, die mit Spiritualität nichts gemeinsam haben: einer Tankstelle und einer Sporthalle.

The dress has an important role. Every year the worshippers buy a new dress to show off for the occasion.Von Simone Sapia
The Dahira members benefit from a break at the service station to pray.Von Simone Sapia
Worshippers have found a good place to pray in the parking area of the service station.Von Simone Sapia
Relatives from different parts of Italy meet in the houses to drink a coffee.Von Simone Sapia
Young guys gather outside the sports hall.Von Simone Sapia
A worshipper prays in loneliness in the grass field near the sports hall.Von Simone Sapia
One of the many stalls that sell religious items.Von Simone Sapia
The posters of the Tijanis Marabout cover the walls of the Zoppas Arena.Von Simone Sapia
The entrance hall become place of meeting and socializing.Von Simone Sapia
A couple of worshippers are about to enter into the prayer room.Von Simone Sapia
All night long worshippers listen to speeches and prayers.Von Simone Sapia
Women catch all the important moments during the night.Von Simone Sapia