The Bamana people believe that a mythical farming antelope named Chi Wara taught their ancestors to farm successfully. To imitate the Chi Wara's hoeing the earth with his long horns, the dancers butt their heads up and down and scratch the earth with long sticks.
TWO HEADDRESSES
The celebration takes place at the time of planting and harvesting. It includes two male dancers wearing one male and one female headdress (Look above). This symbolizes that men and women must work cooperatively in their farming life order to have an abundant harvest.
THE COSTUMEThe Chi Wara is tied to the top of the head and then the face and body is covered in a costume of natural grasses. The honoring of the Chi Wara himself is most important in the festival, so the body of the dancer is hidden. The long thin strands of raffia remind the farmers of the rain that they need for a good harvest. Click on the picture for a better view!
