They hoped that their sacrifices would be rewarded with bountiful harvests and fertility for the year ahead.
When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Bolivia in the 1500s, they enslaved many indigenous people. During this period of enslavement, Tinku fighting became an important means for indigenous men to release their anger and frustration. When the men fought, they would crouch down and move in circles around one another. From this style of combat, the Festive Tinku dance tradition was born. Dancing became a new, safer means of releasing anger and frustration for both indigenous men and women across Bolivia.
Once a year, in early May, ritualistic Tinku combat ceremonies still occur in Bolivia. For two or three days, indigenous men partake in ceremonial fighting to pay tribute to Pachamama. They still believe that their personal sacrifices have the potential to bring about bountiful harvests, fertility and good health for the year ahead.
By contrast, Festive Tinku dancing is much less dangerous and much more fun than ritualistic Tinku combat. It has enabled both men and women to participate in paying a similar tribute to Pachamama, without the violence. What’s more, because Festive Tinku is truly celebratory, people are able to partake in the dancing multiple times throughout the year. Nearly every major holiday and festival in Bolivia features Festive Tinku dancing, reinforcing the cultural significance of honoring and respecting Mother Nature here.
