Maasai Jumping Dance
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We tourists see the Maasai boys and men performing the ‘jumping dance’ just for us. But the real n...
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Watermark does not show on printed products.
We tourists see the Maasai boys and men performing the ‘jumping dance’ just for us. But the real name of the dance is ‘adumu’ and has a real meaning in Maasai society. It’s one of the rituals that make up the Eunoto, the ceremony in which the junior warriors, or morani, graduate to the ranks of manhood. The higher and more graceful the jumping, the more appeal the warrior has to the young women looking on. After the ceremony is over, the morani shave off their long hair as a sign of their new status as full-fledged warriors. They can now return to the community, marry, and start families of their own.
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We tourists see the Maasai boys and men performing the ‘jumping dance’ just for us. But the real name of the dance is ‘adumu’ and has a real meaning in Maasai society. It’s one of the rituals that make up the Eunoto, the ceremony in which the junior warriors, or morani, graduate to the ranks of manhood. The higher and more graceful the jumping, the more appeal the warrior has to the young women looking on. After the ceremony is over, the morani shave off their long hair as a sign of their new status as full-fledged warriors. They can now return to the community, marry, and start families of their own.
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mihrt
October 12, 2018
Thanks so much for sharing the History behind this shot. I have always wondered about the connection. Of course the main concern I have at the moment is if you and yours were all safe after that Hurricane Kay. In my Prayers always, Gail
nina050
October 13, 2018
Just fantastic, Kay.... I remember seeing something similar to this mini years ago in Kenya. They are in amazing culture ...
AnneDphotography
October 21, 2018
wow , amazing shot of such beautiful people ...love the garments and vibrant colors they wear … awesome in every way :)
Forrest_Imagery
October 23, 2018
Another storytelling and educational photograph from you!
I find everything about this scene extremely interesting; from group's colorful clothing, to their atypical physique and, the purpose behind their ceremonial dance.
Images (and stories) like this are not often seen and are therefore important. In a rapidly shrinking world full of social conformity, whether that congruity is adaptive, chosen or forced, cultures such as this are quickly disappearing. More people in the world need to see this image and images like it (please see my comment on "Maasai Woman in Selective Color" for further reasons why). This is excellent work, and those who see it, should not simply glance at it and dismiss it as a "nice shot". It is an image that needs to be studied and appreciated, for it represents a fragile thread, in the multi-colored fabric of humankind.
Kay, I hope you consider yourself very fortunate to have witnessed this event in person, and cherish the opportunity you had in meeting these people.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us !
I find everything about this scene extremely interesting; from group's colorful clothing, to their atypical physique and, the purpose behind their ceremonial dance.
Images (and stories) like this are not often seen and are therefore important. In a rapidly shrinking world full of social conformity, whether that congruity is adaptive, chosen or forced, cultures such as this are quickly disappearing. More people in the world need to see this image and images like it (please see my comment on "Maasai Woman in Selective Color" for further reasons why). This is excellent work, and those who see it, should not simply glance at it and dismiss it as a "nice shot". It is an image that needs to be studied and appreciated, for it represents a fragile thread, in the multi-colored fabric of humankind.
Kay, I hope you consider yourself very fortunate to have witnessed this event in person, and cherish the opportunity you had in meeting these people.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us !
Elyzabeth
October 27, 2018
I really enjoyed Forrest's comment. Judging by the looks on their faces, it seems to be a very important ritual. I associate the color red with the Maasai and you captured that and others beautifully. I also admire that you caught the actual jumping as well. I love that certain cultures hold on their beliefs so strongly. For so many years, and yes, thank you because you have showed us so much throughout your photography.
KayBrewer
November 12, 2018
Thanks, gorgeous! Yep, it was fun watching this and it IS a ritual. Good to see people holding on to their culture in spite of all the pressure.
karensommerslohre
December 31, 2018
The Maasai people are so fabulous and your capture is wonderful~I once had the honor of taking some of their artwork to USA Museums with great success.
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