The beginning of November brought extraordinary days to Sachawa School, where students immersed themselves in a unique learning experience about the tradition associated with honoring the memory of the deceased. Similar to our customs, in the Amazon, this period is dedicated to remembering the departed, but this holiday has taken on its distinctive form, enveloped in the atmosphere of the rainforest.
Children actively participated in the traditional ritual of preparing the ‚la colada morada‘ drink, annually crafted for the ‚Dia de los muertos‘ celebration (Day of the Dead) as a remembrance of the departed. This beverage was made from black corn, baked with pineapple and passion fruit. Black corn, traditionally offered as a sacred gift to the deceased, carries a rich history as a symbol of respect and gratitude. The children also handcrafted crowns as gifts for the deoarted. This activity not only connected the children with their cultural heritage but also created a space for mutual respect and understanding.
Once everything was ready, the children headed to the local small cemetery, each carrying the prepared drink, crown, and pastries as offerings for the deceased. At the cemetery, similar to our customs, they lit candles and had conversations with the departed, sharing the refreshments they had prepared. This gesture expressed gratitude and respect for the spirits while bridging generations, transmitting cultural traditions through time.
The entire process was not only a commemorative act but also an exceptional educational experience that transcended the boundaries of a typical classroom. Curious and enthusiastic children endeavored to delve into the meaning of the ceremony and the cultural background, deepening their connection with the rich culture of their indigenous tradition.
The children from Sachawa, with their genuine interest, not only deepened their understanding of the Day of the Dead but also developed a greater appreciation for the interconnection of life, death, and the longstanding traditions shaping their Amazonian heritage.
