Under A Crescent Moon

Kano, an isolated city of one million-plus set in the heart of Central Africa, is the focal point for this examination of both the history of Islamic culture in Africa, and its particulars in a present-day city. Beginning with a history of Kano's (and Nigeria in general) cultural growth and economic development, the film zeroes in on the role and influence of the Emir, or Muslim ruler of Kano. Once the political, as well as the spiritual, leader of the people, the British regime stripped the Emir of his power, and he has never regained it. The latter half of the film follows the Sallah Festival which marks the end of the Ramadan Fast, culminating in a dramatic ritual in which Muslims on horseback charge the Emir, brandishing spears, and halting at his feet. Recommended for large universities with specialized collections. (See DALAI LAMA for availability).