In August, we perform a ceremonial ritual and fiesta to Pachamama in the north of Argentina, Chile, southern Peru and Bolivia in the Andean region. The ceremony begins by finding a space where you can open a "mouth" in the earth, and this native Andean cultural ritual is often done in synch with the Catholic religion. In the month of August Catholics in this region also celebrate the Virgin and make devotions by opening a "mouth" in the earth to make the offering.
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The celebration of Pachamama is to thank the earth for everything it has given us throughout the year. Placing food that it gives us every day, drink, usually beer or aja (a drink made from maize), and principally the coca le af that is what soothes us when there is hunger and thirst without food or water available.
You search for the three most beautiful and healthy coca leaves, representing the 3 worlds: uju pacha, hanan pacha and kaypacha. From Quechua to English: the Upper World: The universe, the cosmos, that is over the lower world or internal world. The Center of the Earth, the world we live in. The Atmosphere. There is a calling to the winds that bring viruses, bacteria and other germs that can travel from faraway places for the health of the family for the year.
Finally the mouth is closed with the same land with which it was opened. A stone is placed on top, or you can make an apacheta. (A traditional pile of rocks and offerings to Pachamama, found on nearly all mountain summits in the Andean region. Travelers typically stop at the summit and make an offering at the apacheta of whatever liquid they have, water, wine, beer.)
This annual pachamama ceremony has been celebrated for over 500 years. It is like the inheritance left for us by our ancestors. It is a celebration of the true union of nature with man that is needed so badly today. You can celebrate anywhere, usually at home and with the people with whom you live. Here at my home, we celebrate every year and invite people that we want to share with.
Saludos to my Pan American Dreams friends from Salta Capitol, Salta Province, Argentina
Ayelén Gallegos
ayelen@panamericandreams.com
