On December 25, the high Andes province of Chumbivilcas in Cusco, Peru celebrates Takanakuy, a vibrant and unique Christmas tradition. Unlike typical holiday gatherings, where peace and love fill the atmosphere, Takanakuy is about fistfighting your opponent.
But, don’t worry, the purpose is not just to fight, it’s about solving problems, and misunderstandings, and strengthening community bonds through fists. This festival combines Andean culture’s music, dance, and joy with the raw energy of a fight. Let’s see more about this unusual practice on this blog.
Historical Roots and Cultural Significance
“Chumbivilcanos”, or people from Chumbvilcas, the ones who practice Takanakuy, state that they don’t descend from the Inca, but the Chanka, a tribe in the Andes that resisted both Inca and Spaniards. This detail can give us a glimpse of how quick-tempered these people are.
As for the Takanakuy, it has a rich history that goes back even before the Inca Empire time. The origin of Takanakuy is surrounded by theories and stories that blend history, resistance, and cultural adaptation. Some studies link it to the Taki Onqoy, a resistance movement that emerged during the Spanish colonization.
Other hypotheses suggest that, by the end of the 19th century, “Huaylia,” a type of music and dances in Inca resistance mixed with fights. By doing so, these people restore their warrior spirit, using it as a source to solve their issues and problems.
.Some others say that African slaves and local communities in Chumbivilcas adopted fighting practices in their social interactions. Some say colonizers’ cockfights may have evolved into human fights as a form of resistance.
It is clear that, beyond its history, Takanakuy is a symbol of identity and autonomy, adapting to the times without losing its essence.
The Spirit of Takanakuy
Takanakuy means “punching each other” in the Quechua language, a proper name for a traditional festival where people will vent their frustrations. Participants, from children to the elderly, enter the ring to settle year-long disputes, where both men and women take part.
These disputes might be personal, sentimental, territorial, or family-to-family feuds, so the goal is to restore harmony within the community. Although the idea of organized public fights may seem intense, the matches are conducted with strict rules to ensure safety.
No biting, hitting someone on the ground, or foul play. Referees oversee the fights to prevent misconduct. Each match begins and ends with a handshake or hug, symbolizing reconciliation. The fights are typically brief, lasting less than a minute, and resemble sparring rather than chaotic brawling.
Many participants prefer this unique conflict resolution method, as they consider it better than harboring long-term animosity toward neighbors. While some might see the festival as harsh, for those in these remote villages, it has a helpful purpose.
In places with few legal resources, public fights settle disputes quickly without complex court processes. The festival unites people through shared activities like dance, costumes, music, and combat. This creates a lasting community that endures long after the event.
Festivities and Preparation
Before the fights, the atmosphere in Chumbivilcas is lively and celebratory. Locals use colorful costumes, including cowboy-inspired legwear and woven ski masks. They parade through the streets, dancing to Huaylia music.
Using native musical instruments to play songs, alcohol plays a significant role, with participants often drinking before, during, and after the fights. This boosts the festival’s festive yet chaotic spirit. When a Takanakuy fight starts, two fighters enter the ring masked, calling out their opponent’s name.
Then, they wrap their hands in cloth to prepare for combat. Assistant judges with whips help manage the crowd, as it often becomes animated and moves closer to the ring as fights intensify. Despite the show, the focus remains on community harmony.
Victory in the ring brings personal honor and resolves grievances, so this is key to Takanakuy’s lasting cultural significance. Takanakuy is not only restricted to locals, as all people can participate. As a foreigner, you can “challenge” a villager to fight with you, just to experience it. Are you in?
A Unique Christmas Experience in Peru
For visitors, experiencing Takanakuy offers a glimpse into a vibrant Andean tradition. The festival takes place about 180 km south of Cusco, the getaway city to Machu Picchu. For example, in Cusco, you can enjoy the Santurantikuy market on Christmas Day.
Artisans from the region sell crafts, clothing, and food there. To know more about Christmas and New Year Peruvian traditions, take a look at our guides!
A Cathartic Celebration
Takanakuy is more than just a spectacle of fighting; it is a ritual of catharsis. In a small, close-knit province, open, physical grievance resolution ensures long-term harmony. Although some outsiders may see it as a violent tradition, for Chumbivilcans is a celebration that mixes therapy and cultural expressions.
It shows how Andean communities preserve their traditions while facing modern challenges. This “peacefully violent” tradition shows the strength of a mountain culture and offers a unique Christmas experience for those who dare to enter the Andes.
To experience unique celebrations like takanakuy, you can stay tuned to our blog. Viagens Machu Picchu also invites you to discover more of our country uniquely. Contact us to take the first step into your new adventure, Peru, the Andes, and its traditions are waiting for you!
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