Photo Communication Sarayaku
Amazanga is the owner of the jungle. It is the protective being of animals. The Sarayaku worldview says that he is the one who authorizes hunting in his territory as long as it is for family support and never for simple fun.
Amazanga is everywhere in Kawsak Sacha – Living Forest. As the entire village prepares for the Uyantza – Sarayaku's traditional festival, Amazanga has hidden the animals, her children.
Therefore, an individual cannot go hunting without first practicing "sasi" (abstinence), smoking tobacco, and having a dream the night before. If a hunter dreams that he is carrying yucca or plantains, it means the hunt will be successful. If he dreams that he gets pricked by thorns, he should not go. These recommendations come from the Yachaks—the wise men of Sarayaku—who assist at each of the festivals.
On Sunday morning before going hunting, the men with all the hunting and fishing instruments, their dogs, baskets, bodoqueras, shotguns, spoons, beat their drums and dance around the plaza. To purify the energy, the "apa mama" (grandmothers) of Sarayaku place nettles on their feet and place "ruyak allpa" (white clay) and "yana allpa" (black clay) as camouflage for the face of the brave hunters before to go into the jungle.
Hunting with a bodoquera is a skill of few. Men must do "sasi" to receive the power, strength and energy that will allow a good aim.
In Sarayaku for fishing in the Bobonaza and Rotuno rivers, it is forbidden to use sticks of dynamite according to the rules of coexistence and community and inter-community agreements. The use of barbasco can only occur once a year, under the authorization of the traditional authorities.
Photo communication Sarayaku
UYANTZA pays tribute and thanks for the kindness and abundance granted by AMAZANGA and to MOTHER EARTH, which allow us to continue existing as a People with dignity and respect for the jungle.