In a unique tradition not recognized by the Catholic Church, hundreds of Bolivians gathered at La Paz’s municipal cemetery to celebrate the Ñatitas festival. Devotees carry human skulls adorned with flowers as part of an age-old custom that blends Andean and Catholic beliefs.
Participants of the festival, rooted deeply in Andean culture, believe that the Ñatitas can grant favors such as health, wealth, and love. This celebration is intertwined with the end of the Catholic holiday of All Saints, although the festival itself is independent of the Catholic doctrine.
A prominent figure among the skulls is known as Mama Azapa. Her skull features braided hair, and she is revered by Elena Martínez, a Quechua priestess, who regards Mama Azapa as her protector. The devotion is expressed in various ways – attendees decorate the skulls with flowers and offer coca leaves. Some go as far as placing cigarettes in the mouths of the skulls, while others dress them in sunglasses and hats.
The skulls are housed respectfully, some placed in ornate golden urns or glass cases, while others are kept in decorated shoe boxes. The eclectic mix of displays highlights the deeply personal nature of this tradition, where the living seek to honor and connect with the deceased.
Anthropologist Milton Eyzaguirre from the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore provides insights into this vibrant tradition. He explains that in Andean culture, death is intertwined with life. He notes, ‘The deceased are underground, in the earth, which is why they are related to plants that are about to be born.’ This belief underscores the symbiotic relationship between death and rebirth in the festival, emphasizing a cultural narrative that respects and venerates ancestors.
The Ñatitas festival vividly illustrates the rich tapestry of beliefs held by the Bolivian people, melding ancient customs with contemporary practices in a vibrant celebration of life and death. Though not aligned with Catholicism, the festival is a testament to the enduring heritage of Andean traditions.
Source: Local10
