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DUKAS_192439830_ZUM
Red Fabrics Drying in Bangladesh
January 5, 2026, Narsingdi, Dhaka, Bangladesh: Hundreds of meters of bright red fabrics are laid out in neat rows across a field in Narsingdi, Bangladesh, during winter. Known as ''Lal Shalu'' to the locals, the long red cloths are set out to dry under the hot sun, having been dyed with bright red color. The use of sunlight to dry out the fabrics reduces production costs as it is cheaper and more sustainable. The eco-friendly drying method spans an area equal to 5 football fields and takes up to 6 hours to complete after being placed by workers at sunrise. (Credit Image: © Joy Saha/ZUMA Press Wire (FOTO: DUKAS/ZUMA)
Represented by ZUMA Press, Inc. -
DUKAS_191535254_NUR
Daily Life In Krakow, Poland.
The Adam Mickiewicz Monument stands on the Main Market Square in Krakow, Poland, on November 28, 2025. The bronze statue commemorates the greatest Polish Romantic poet of the 19th century. (Photo by Marcin Golba/NurPhoto) -
DUKAS_191535250_NUR
Daily Life In Krakow, Poland.
The Main Square Market is in Krakow, Poland, on November 28, 2025. The Town Hall Tower and the Cloth Hall Sukiennice are in the Old Town district of Krakow. (Photo by Marcin Golba/NurPhoto) -
DUKAS_191535211_NUR
Daily Life In Krakow, Poland.
The Adam Mickiewicz Monument stands on the Main Market Square in Krakow, Poland, on November 28, 2025. The bronze statue commemorates the greatest Polish Romantic poet of the 19th century. (Photo by Marcin Golba/NurPhoto) -
DUKAS_183302872_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 16, 2024 - Kalash Valley, Pakistan: The Kalash Valleys, located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, during the Spring Celebration. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. (Maro Kouri / Polaris)region's fragrance of grapes. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. They honor the Greek Goddess of hearth Hestia, known locally as "Gestak". The story highlights how, in one of the most Islamic countries, the women of this small community retain their freedom wearing their own traditional clothes, dancing and singing in the countryside areas, surrounded by men visitors from all over the country. The Kalash people need more support, especially in terms of healthcare, as the harsh winter snows isolate them from the rest of the world. The community struggles with limited resources, and many children suffer from respiratory diseases. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLAR
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302857_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 15, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan: A young Kalash woman comes in ecstasy dancing all day till the sunset, during the 3 days Spring celebations named Joshi. Despite the strong influence of Islam in their region, the Kalash women of all ages, managed to retain their colorful traditional clothing, in contrast to the conservative attire worn by women in neighboring cities, such as the burqa. Their festive hats are adorned with feathers and aromatic branches, reminiscent of the plumes of Macedonian helmets. The sea shells in their attire remind them of their maritime origins. The number of the colored beads of their necklaces, indicates the degree of their economic status. Their hair is combed into five braids, where the main one, in the center of the head, has been braided since a young age and has never been cut. The next day all the women will sing a song to thank the walnut trees for their abundance of fruits. Furthermore, the young women of the Kalash, despite living in a conservative Muslim area, choose to study at nearby universities, pursuing subjects such as botany. Their goal is to stay close to their community while integrating the ancient wisdom of their tribe into their professional lives. The Kalash follow their own calendar, with the seasons determined by the Moon and the rhythms of Nature. Kalash women can marry the man they fall in love with. Women stand out for their beauty, they are proud, free with obvious sociability and active participation in the democratic processes of the Community. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302854_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 14, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan: Two young Kalash women wash their clothes in the river, enjoying their sisterhood, chatting in the bright sunlight to the music of the Chitral River. Kalash women can marry the man they fall in love with, study what they want at the universities of nearby cities, respect the tradition of their tribe and some like to the village, wear their traditional, colorful costumes during holy days and feasts experiencing the unique freedom of women in the entire country. Women stand out for their beauty, they are proud, free with obvious sociability and active participation in the democratic processes of the Community. They dress in a long black tunic (Sangachs) embroidered with colorful geometric shapes on the hem, on the edges of the sleeves and on the jacket. They are adorned with necklaces of colored beads, the number of which indicates the degree of their economic status. Their hair is combed into five braids, where the main one, in the center of the head, has been braided since a young age and has never been cut. It is said that Alexander the Great, on the eve of a battle, doubted its outcome. However, the battle was won thanks to the unexpected intervention of women. To honor their help, he called a meeting and asked his men to give their helmets to the women, who had proven more worthy. A general then placed his helmet Shusut on the head of the female leader. In memory of this, the "Shusut" was established and Kalash women wear at all times to honor the respect given to them. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302852_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 14, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan:During "Tsiripipi", a special, local milk ceremony into the spring festival, women and girls pick the first flowers of the year, while families exchange gifts of cheese and milk which is considered sacred. During this feast, every shepherd shares the milk from his goats. The community struggles with limited resources, and many children suffer from respiratory diseases and malnutrition. There is a growing need for better sanitation and assistance with farming, as their crops are insufficient. Deforestation poses a serious threat, risking soil erosion and flooding of their villages. Given the unique and fragile beauty of this ancient culture, it is crucial that we take action to protect and preserve the Kalash people for future generations. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302850_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 15, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan: An outside visitor to the Kalash spring festival “Joshi” enjoys the uniquely beautiful view of the Rumbur valley, waving her shawl, thus giving a little shade to her head, from the strong midday sun of the mountain. The Kalash women stand out for their beauty, they are proud, free with obvious sociability and active participation in the democratic processes of the Community. The Kalash Valleys, located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, i. the ite of their Spring Celebration. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. (Maro Kouri / Polaris)region's fragrance of grapes. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. They honor the Greek Goddess of hearth Hestia, known locally as "Gestak". (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302840_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 15, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan: A proud old man is happily descending from the snowy mountain, carrying ice in his cart that he is going to use to preserve the meat and the few vegetables now that summer is coming in the Kalash Valleys, located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, during the Spring Celebration. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. (Maro Kouri / Polaris)region's fragrance of grapes. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. They honor the Greek Goddess of hearth Hestia, known locally as "Gestak". The story highlights how, in one of the most Islamic countries, the women of this small community retain their freedom wearing their own traditional clothes, dancing and singing. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302834_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 15, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan: Women stand outside the sacred house of Hestia Greek ancient goddess of housing. In Kalash culture, where ecstasy, love, poetry, shamanism, and the pagan feelings associated with the Greek god Pan still thrive. In one of the most Islamic countries, the women of a small community are free to wear whatever they want, dance embracing each other in small and large circles, openly in nature, and sing ecstatically. They are surrounded by men, who come from all over the country to join in the festivities. The women stand out for their beauty, they are proud, free with obvious sociability and active participation in the democratic processes of the Community. They dress in a long black tunic (Sangachs) embroidered with colorful geometric shapes on the hem, on the edges of the sleeves and on the bodice. They are adorned with necklaces of colored beads, the number of which indicates the degree of their economic status. Their hair is combed into five braids, where the main one, in the center of the head, has been braided since a young age and has never been cut. On their heads they wear a fully embroidered hat (Shusut), which resembles a Greek helmet. It is said that Alexander the Great, on the eve of a battle, expressed to his staff their reservations about its successful outcome. In the end, the battle was won, thanks to the unexpected military intervention of women. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302828_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 14, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan:? Kalash young man plays the traditional drum that is decorated with flowers, symbols of the fertility, to accompany the women into their circle dance. The music of the Kalash is connected to the cycle of life. During all religious festivals attended by women, women's circular dances are performed. The women are held in a circle with their hands clasped behind their backs and accompany the dance with song. The instrumental accompaniment in the center of the circle is a large tambourine. The Kalas, despite the occasional persecution and decimation of their tribe by various invaders (Mongols, Chinese, Tatars, Persians and Muslims), remain a peace-loving and amnesiac people. They are cheerful people and love music, songs and dance. In fact, being a good dancer is a special honor, just as it was in ancient Greece. The son of Achilles, Pyrrhus, was glorified because he danced beautifully. Kalash people during traditional Spring Joshi feast, celebrate, drink wine of their own production, together with women, offering them a small branch of a fertile tree at the end of the ceremony, symbolizing fertility. The women stand out for their beauty, they are proud, free with obvious sociability and active participation in the democratic processes of the Community. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302827_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 14, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan:A boy waits outside his sheepfold for his father to gather the sheep. The Kalash, a small ethnic group believed to descend from Alexander the Great, live in relative isolation in the Kalash Valleys in Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas. For centuries, invaders pushed them into remote areas where they resisted Arab conquerors and their religion. After the 19th-century Durand Line divided Afghanistan from India, the Kalash survived in the valleys of Birir, Bumburet and Rumbur in the Hindu Kush. With around 3,000 people, the Kalash continue practicing an ancient religion, the origins of which are unclear. Their vibrant clothing, especially the women’s, contrasts with the conservative attire of neighboring regions. They celebrate their connection with nature through festivals with singing, dancing and drinking alcohol. However, they face many challenges, including isolation, poor healthcare, and limited resources. Respiratory diseases and malnutrition affect many children, while deforestation and insufficient crops threaten their survival. There is an urgent need for improved healthcare, farming support, and preservation of their culture. and they require help to protect their way of life. Note:I asked the boy to look at the sun to capture the light in his eyes. Without a fill-in flash, I pointed towards the sun or looked at it myself, to encourage him. In May, the sun rises and sets quickly in the Kalash valleys remaining vertical most of the day. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302820_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
may 14, 2024 - Kalash Valley, Pakistan: A girl from the Kalash tribe arranges the plates on the kitchen shelves of her home. Kalash Valleys, located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, during the Spring Celebration. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. They honor the Greek Goddess of hearth Hestia, known locally as "Gestak". The story highlights how, in one of the most Islamic countries, the women of this small community retain their freedom wearing their own traditional clothes, dancing and singing in the countryside areas, surrounded by men visitors from all over the country. The Kalash people need more support, especially in terms of healthcare, as the harsh winter snows isolate them from the rest of the world. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302819_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 17, 2024 - Kallas Valleys, Pakistan:A very old man in his hand-painted truck, drives to transport goods from Chitral, the nearest city, to the Kalash Valleys and back. The driver's and passenger's doors are carved from the outside. This is the tradition in trucks, lorries and even passenger buses in Pakistan. The Kalash festivals are a major event that every year attracts more and more visitors from all over the country as well as from abroad, thus somewhat increasing the income of the people of the tribe who otherwise really need significant help. This portfolio showcases my personal work in the Kalash Valleys, located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, during the Spring Celebration. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. After the creation of the Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, captivated by the region's fragrance of grapes. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302927_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 13, 2024 - Kalash Valley, Pakistan: A baby girl in her father's arms with the river in the background This portfolio showcases my personal work in the Kalash Valleys, located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, during the Spring Celebration. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. They honor the Greek Goddess of hearth Hestia, known locally as "Gestak". The story highlights how, in one of the most Islamic countries, the women of this small community retain their freedom wearing their own traditional clothes, dancing and singing in the countryside areas, surrounded by men visitors from all over the country. The Kalash people need more support, especially in terms of healthcare, as the harsh winter snows isolate them from the rest of the world. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302924_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 14, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan: In Kalash culture, ecstasy, love, poetry, shamanism, and the pagan feelings associated with the Greek god Pan still live on. In one of the most Islamic countries, the women of a small community are free to wear whatever they want, to dance embracing each other, creating smaller and larger circles, openly in nature, and to sing ecstatically. They are surrounded by men, who come from all over the country to join in the festivities. In the heart of the Muslim-majority regions of Asia, this small tribe remains the only one that produces and enjoys wine during their celebrations and gatherings. Despite the strong influence of Islam in their region, the women of the Kalash have managed to preserve their colorful traditional clothing, in stark contrast to the more conservative attire worn by women in neighboring areas, such as the burqa. Their festive hats, adorned with feathers and aromatic branches, evoke of the plumes of ancient Macedonian helmets. The sea shells in their clothing serve as a reminder of their maritime origins. The spring Joshi festival lasts throughout the day, pausing at sunset and resuming the following. During this celebration, they sing a song of gratitude to the walnut tree for its abundance of fruits. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183302920_POL
Kalash, ancient tribe of Pakistan in Taliban region
May 14, 2024- Kallas Valleys, Pakistan:Salim (on the left) and his colleague Farman are the jeep drivers who took us to the Kalasha Valleys. The dirt road is very narrow and steep, requiring a lot of experience, as sometimes it rains heavily, snows, or large rocks fall. Salim enjoys the Kalasha celebrations and, although he is Muslim, he greatly appreciates this tribe and has formed genuine friendships with some of the Kalasha people. The Kalash Valleys are located in the mountains of Pakistan, just a few kilometers from Taliban-controlled areas, where Spring Celebration is an annual event. Kalash is a small ethnic group, believed to trace its origins back to Alexander the Great, lives here in relative isolation. For centuries, invaders forced them into remote areas, where they fiercely resisted the Arab conquerors and their religion. The Durand Line at the end of the 19th century, which separated Afghanistan from India, the Kalash managed to survive in the three valleys Birir, Bumburet, and Rumbur of the eastern Hindu Kushrange, now part of Pakistan. These valleys lie near the Afghanistan border and are surrounded by towering peaks. With a population of approximately 3,000 the Kalash continue to practice an ancient religion, the origins of which remain unclear. Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus founded a settlement in the region known for its festivals and orgies. During Alexander the Great's expedition to the East, many of his soldiers deserted, and settled in the Kalash Valleys. Kalash culture still carries remnants of Greek influence, with traditions centered around ecstasy, love and poetry. During the three-day Spring festival "Joshi," the Kalash women, sing in their native language and perform traditional dances. They honor the Greek Goddess of hearth Hestia, known locally as "Gestak". (Maro Kouri / Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183124790_POL
Timeless world of Ethiopia's Omo valley tribes
February 24, 2023 - Chencha, Omo Valley, Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia: Men and women of all ages from the Dorze tribe continue the art of creating colorful textiles using wooden looms, spinning wheels, and other traditional methods. The Dorze tribe is renowned for its skilled weaving, not only in textiles but also in crafting huts made from local bamboo. These huts, which can last up to 80 years, are a testament to their craftsmanship and sustainable living. (Maro Kouri/Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUKAS_183124728_POL
Timeless world of Ethiopia's Omo valley tribes
February 24, 2023 - Chencha, Omo Valley, Arba Minch, southern Ethiopia: Men and women of all ages from the Dorze tribe continue the art of creating colorful textiles using wooden looms, spinning wheels, and other traditional methods. The Dorze tribe is renowned for its skilled weaving, not only in textiles but also in crafting huts made from local bamboo. These huts, which can last up to 80 years, are a testament to their craftsmanship and sustainable living. (Maro Kouri/Polaris) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS)
MARO KOURI -
DUK10142984_017
SPORT - Tennis: Roger Federer trainiert am Paris Open
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Javier Garcia/BPI/Shutterstock (11976928eg)
The Roger Federer On tennis shoes worn for his first practice of the tournament in a cloth bag held by coach Ivan Ljubicic
French Open Tennis, Friday Previews, Roland Garros, Paris, France - 28 May 2021
(c) Dukas -
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SPORT - Tennis: Roger Federer trainiert am Paris Open
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Javier Garcia/BPI/Shutterstock (11976928eh)
The Roger Federer On tennis shoes worn for his first practice of the tournament in a cloth bag held by coach Ivan Ljubicic
French Open Tennis, Friday Previews, Roland Garros, Paris, France - 28 May 2021
(c) Dukas -
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REPORTAGE - Alltag in Jerusalem
February 5, 2020, Jerusalem, Israel: Visitors in the Jewish cemetery, the Mount of Olives, Jerusalem..On Wednesday, February 5, 2020, in Jerusalem, Israel. (Credit Image: © Artur Widak/NurPhoto via ZUMA Press (FOTO: DUKAS/ZUMA)
(c) Dukas -
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REPORTAGE - Alltag in Jerusalem
February 5, 2020, Jerusalem, Israel: A view of the Jewish cemetery in the Mount of Olives, Jerusalem, with stones on a headstone to indicate respect for the deceased..On Wednesday, February 5, 2020, in Jerusalem, Israel. (Credit Image: © Artur Widak/NurPhoto via ZUMA Press (FOTO: DUKAS/ZUMA)
(c) Dukas -
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FEATURE - Pix of the Day: Bilder des Tages
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Andrew McCaren/LNP/REX/Shutterstock (9722481b)
British artist Mister Finch at the launch of his new exhibition at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. More than 75 individual soft sculptures showcase Finch?s masterful combination of up-cycled and new materials, from discarded wire, steel and wood, to vintage tapestries, cross stitch samplers, tablecloths, antique silverware and rescued cloth. The self-taught artist has drawn inspiration from British folklore, the historic Bretton Estate and Yorkshire wildlife to create his textile wonders. Finch?s Gothic fairytale centres around the story of The Wish Post, a magical kingdom of woodland animals whose job it is to collect and sort other creatures? wishes, which are breathed into envelopes and posted in toadstool postboxes.
Mister Finch Exhibition launch, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, UK - 20 Jun 2018
(c) Dukas -
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REPORTAGE - Japan: Wakamiya Hachiman-sha Shrine Festival in Nagoya
MAY 16, 2018 - Shinto priests rest along a parade route during the Wakamiya Hachiman-sha Shrine annual festival in Nagoya, Japan. (Photo by Ben Weller/AFLO) (JAPAN) [UHU]
(c) Dukas -
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NEWS - Winterwetter über Europa
January 16, 2018 - Krakow, Poland - A view of Krakow's Rynek Square during a snow storm..On Tuesday, January 16, 2018, in Krakow, Poland (FOTO: DUKAS/ZUMA)
(c) Dukas -
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NEWS - Winterwetter über Europa
January 16, 2018 - Krakow, Poland - A view of Krakow's Cloth Hall just after a snow storm..On Tuesday, January 16, 2018, in Krakow, Poland (FOTO: DUKAS/ZUMA)
(c) Dukas -
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Spring Fashion
SONDERKONDITIONEN | SPECIAL FEE Spring Fashion *** Local Caption *** 00614081
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DUK10069455_048
FEATURE - Tibet: Land und Leute
(4/22/2017) Monks outside of the Sera Monastery Temple, Lhasa, Tibet. The monastery of Sera, in Lhasa, is known for the discussions between monks (Photo by Sergi Reboredo/Sipa USA) *** Local Caption *** 20844385
(c) Dukas -
DUK10069455_020
FEATURE - Tibet: Land und Leute
(4/22/2017) Monks debating in the Debating Courtyard at Sera Monastery, Lhasa, Tibet (Photo by Sergi Reboredo/Sipa USA) *** Local Caption *** 20844391
(c) Dukas -
DUK10069455_011
FEATURE - Tibet: Land und Leute
(4/22/2017) Monks debating in the Debating Courtyard at Sera Monastery, Lhasa, Tibet (Photo by Sergi Reboredo/Sipa USA) *** Local Caption *** 20844388
(c) Dukas -
DUK10069455_050
FEATURE - Tibet: Land und Leute
(4/22/2017) Monks debating in the Debating Courtyard at Sera Monastery, Lhasa, Tibet (Photo by Sergi Reboredo/Sipa USA) *** Local Caption *** 20844387
(c) Dukas -
DUK10058294_067
REPORTAGE - Leben im Norden von Äthiopien
(1/27/2017) Lalibela, Amhara region, Ethiopia. A weaver makes typical Ethiopian carpets in the town of Lalibela. It is difficult to find an Ethiopian who has not traveled to Lalibela, or at least does not reflect in his face mixed feelings of joy, pride and devotion when someone mentions the name of Ethiopia's most sacred place. (Photo by Sergi Reboredo) *** Please Use Credit from Credit Field *** *** Local Caption *** 19951064
(c) Dukas -
DUK10045463_018
NEWS - London: 'Modern and Post-War British Art' Auktion bei Sotheby's
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Nils Jorgensen/REX/Shutterstock (7448465r)
Mary Fedden. The Red Cloth. Est. GBP 15,000-20,000
Sotheby's Modern and Post-War British Art auction, London, UK - 18 Nov 2016
Four Auctions Including Lord & Lady Attenborough's Celebrated Picasso Ceramics on view at Sotheby's, London.
(FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
(c) Dukas -
DUK10045463_015
NEWS - London: 'Modern and Post-War British Art' Auktion bei Sotheby's
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Nils Jorgensen/REX/Shutterstock (7448465q)
Mary Fedden. The Red Cloth. Est. GBP 15,000-20,000
Sotheby's Modern and Post-War British Art auction, London, UK - 18 Nov 2016
Four Auctions Including Lord & Lady Attenborough's Celebrated Picasso Ceramics on view at Sotheby's, London.
(FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
(c) Dukas -
DUK10045463_029
NEWS - London: 'Modern and Post-War British Art' Auktion bei Sotheby's
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Nils Jorgensen/REX/Shutterstock (7448465p)
Mary Fedden. The Red Cloth. Est. GBP 15,000-20,000
Sotheby's Modern and Post-War British Art auction, London, UK - 18 Nov 2016
Four Auctions Including Lord & Lady Attenborough's Celebrated Picasso Ceramics on view at Sotheby's, London.
(FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_060
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_059
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_058
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_057
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_056
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_050
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_049
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_048
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_047
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_065
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_063
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_070
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
DUK10068031_064
REPORTAGE - Benin: Voodoo Zwillinge Tradition
Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins. All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place.
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
(c) Dukas -
