How to beat the aunties to the goob

You step into the goob, ready to kill it, only for three aunties to storm the circle before you even take your first step. You politely retreat to the sidelines and clap.

How many times has this happened to you?

Listen. The goob is not a place for hesitation. It’s where you make your presence known through bold, explosive body language. Step in unsure or shy, and the next habaryar will happily take over the show. Your job in the goob is not to wait for permission, it’s to command attention. The more confidently you express yourself, the more the durbaan lady will fall in love with you and advocate for your stay. Do this well and you may even hear a: "ku celi kii hore ku celi"

But it all starts before the drum.

Don’t jump in the moment the durbaan begins. The work starts during the recital of the poetry. This is your moment to xarago: walk with grace, confidence, and intention. Take your time. Flirt with the audience through your eyes, a smile here, when the poetry calls for it, blow a kiss to the bride. Remember: boodhid is the embodiment of the buraanbur being recited. You captivate the crowd with slow, controlled movements at the beginning, then shock them with the show of a lifetime!

However, to do all of this, you must learn the language.

The buraanbur reciter will repeat each line once or twice. When you understand the words, everything changes. You’re no longer just moving to the beat of the drum, you’re embodying the poetry. Your shoulders, your hands, your expressions begin to respond naturally to meaning. The dance becomes effortless, because you’re no longer performing, you’re feeling what you’re expressing.

Most importantly and above all hablo, make the entrance your own.

Don’t copy what you’ve seen online. We all know when something is borrowed. Your xarago should feel like you, your walk, your smile, your timing - make it all yours.

Much like life, it all begins with how you step in to every room. First impressions matter because people feel you before they understand you. Make your presence strong in every room you enter - whether its the goob, an interview for a senior role, or a pitch for investment, carry your xarago and strength with you wherever you go.