Ka'anala Viruna

This is an annual celebration held by the Ahiogrisnad to worship N'Zembe. It takes place at the end of the wet season, when they are able to do most of their farming.

History

The people who first moved into the Ahiogris Mountains had heard the stories of meeting the gods. The main god they worshipped was the Sun god, and over time that evolved into directly worshipping N'Zembe.  The actual celebration has remained fairly consistent over time, but the object of worship and prayer has changed. The community spiritual leader is called the Zembalic.

Execution

The Zembalic wakes everyone up on the day of Ka'anala Viruna by ringing many bells and running through the town. As they rise, they gather in the town center by the altar. The Zembalic raises their hands to the sky and leads the community in a raucous chant to N'Zembe. They use this and other chants in their regular worship throughout the year, but this one on this day is special. After they finish the chant, the Zembalic has everyone pass around baskets of food. They thank N'Zembe for the harvest, and everyone eats.  Everyone disperses when they finish their food and goes back to their homes. They put on their nicest clothes, jewelry, and makeup and grab instruments or other noisemakers. The community parades through the streets, dancing and making noise. As they tire, they take a break from the parade.  The elders in the community who usually tire first break off to make a large communal feast made from the recent harvest. When the food is ready, the Zembalic makes the first plate and everyone follows them to the altar. The plate is presented on the altar and a small amount of water is poured over it. Everyone raises their hands to the sky, and shouts their thanks to N'Zembe once more. Then everyone goes back to the feast and has their fill of excellent food.  As evening begins, everyone continues to hang out, play music, dance, and tell stories. After sunset, the Zembalic gathers everyone to the altar and tell them their creation myth.

Components and tools

a large number of bells on a string and two large hand bells a small pitcher of water the ritual plate for food offerings

Participants

The Zembalic leads the celebration.  The community elders prepare the feast. Everyone attends and celebrates, even young children.

Observance

This is always on the last day of the wet season or the first day of the dry season.

Primary Related Location

Ahiogris Mountains

Related Ethnicities

• Ahiogrisnad