In Michigan, USA – thousands of miles from Sana’a – filmmaker Omar Khaleel shows that Yemeni culture is alive, well and being expressed with pride and grace at traditional weddings. The film is part of his ongoing project ‘Cast No Shadow’ which reflects on the way that people remain tied to and anchored by their roots. Nataal is proud to debut this short film alongside the artist’s accompanying poem.

“In the USA, a Yemeni wedding unfolds…

Songs passed down through centuries fill the air.

Traditions adorn the body… and anchor the spirit. The soul of the homeland is near.

Feet remember the steps, as movement becomes memory.

A groom stands still… as generations stand behind him.

Brothers in tradition. Warriors in dance. For millennia, Yemenis have carried their culture wherever they go.

And nowhere is this more evident... than in their weddings

Michigan and Yemen: two homes, one heart.

Where old customs meet new streets… With the same energy.

Here, the new is present… but the destination is Yemeni soul.

The night ignites with songs in the mother tongue. He is ushered in with history at his side.

Thousands of miles from Sana’a and Ibb, Yemeni weddings remain deeply anchored in tradition.

At the heart of it all is not just ritual... but remembrance. Who they are, and where they come from.

In a world where cultures blend, evolve and sometimes fade… they have held on and passed on.

Fathers and sons…

east and west…

Movement remembers what history cannot erase, for continuity.

We carry home with us

With grace, pride, and love…”