Lifestyle
Olokun Festival in Brazil: Honouring the Spirit of the Deep (PHOTOS)
Olokun, one of the most powerful orishas in Yoruba tradition, is deeply connected to the ocean, mystery, wealth, and the unseen forces of life. In Yoruba cosmology, Olokun can be male, female, or both reflecting the vast, unpredictable nature of the sea.
The Myth
In one well-known story, Olokun became angry with humanity and tried to flood the world. Obatala, another great orisha, intervened and bound Olokun with seven chains, calming the waters. This tale reminds us of the sea’s power: it can both give life and take it away.
Across the Diaspora
Olokun is widely revered among coastal Yoruba and Edo people in Nigeria, and the orisha travelled with enslaved Africans to the Americas. In Brazil, Olokun is part of the Candomblé tradition, although Yemanjá (Iemanjá) is often more visible in public celebrations. Still, interest in Olokun is growing as Brazilians reconnect with African spiritual heritage.
Festival de Olokun 2025
This year marks a historic moment: the first Festival de Olokun in Rio de Janeiro, took place on 31 May 2025 at Praia dos Amores, Barra da Tijuca. Organised by the Centro Cultural Africano, the event will feature:
Rituals and prayers to Olokun
Cultural and academic talks
Artistic performances
Environmental awareness programmes (reflecting Olokun’s link to the ocean)
Leaders such as Oba Adekunlé Aderonmu, Iyalode Adriana Eloy, Iyalorixá Alba de Oyá, and Ogan Valter Macumba are among the organisers, highlighting the importance of honouring African roots in Brazil.
Why It Matters
The Festival de Olokun is more than a celebration — it is a cultural revival. It reconnects Afro-Brazilians with their African heritage, honours the deep waters as sacred, and reminds us of the power of tradition to guide modern life.
Photo Source: yorubaness
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