Gulewamkulu

Gulewamkulu

Gulewamkulu dancing mask won by Nyaus from Malawi
Etymology	Healing dance
Genre	Traditional
Instrument(s)	clapping drums bongos shakers congas agogo triangles
Inventor	The Chewa people (ethnic group)
Year	1700
Origin	Malawi, Zambia

The Gulewamkulu Traditional Dance is a traditional dance performed by the Chewa people of Malawi, and Zambia. Its history dates back to the 17th century, when it was performed by the Nyau societies, secret fraternal organizations that played a significant role in the social and political lives of the Chewa people. The Chewa ancestors started the dance to talk to the souls of their dead, their predecessors and gods.

The dance was for honoring the spirits and satisfying them so that they could protect and guide those performing the dance as they asked for blessings from them. It served as a way for Chewa people to show their cultural principles, faith as well as traditional practices which include their bond with environment plus things beyond human understanding.

With elaborate costumes, masks and energetic movements, The Gulewamkulu dance is symbolized by life's struggles and victories. Men are amongst the performers of this dance adorning themselves with complex animal and ancestral masks and costumes. The dancers usually move in rhythmic patterns with drumming and singing thus creating a kind of spiritual communion between them.

History

The Gulewamkulu Traditional Dance has its roots in the rich cultural heritage of the Chewa people, who trace their origins to the great Bantu migration from central Africa. The dance is believed to have originated in the 17th century, during the reign of the legendary Chewa king, Kalonga Chidzonzi. Kalonga Chidzonzi, also known as the "Great Python", was a powerful and wise ruler who united the Chewa people and established the Nyau societies, secret fraternal organizations responsible for maintaining social order, resolving conflicts, and preserving cultural traditions. One of the key figures credited with developing the Gulewamkulu dance is a renowned Chewa chief and spiritual leader named Mwali Chipingu. Mwali Chipingu is said to have received divine inspiration from the spirits to create a dance that would honor the ancestors and communicate with the spirit world.

Collaborating with other prominent Chewa leaders, including Chief Kaduya and Chief Mkoko, Mwali Chipingu choreographed the dance, designed the masks and costumes, and composed the accompanying music and songs. The dance was initially performed by the Nyau societies, who would don the elaborate masks and costumes to represent various spirits, animals, and ancestors. Over time, the Gulewamkulu dance spread throughout the Chewa territories, with different regions developing their unique styles and variations. Despite the impact of colonialism, Christianization, and urbanization, the dance has remained an integral part of Chewa culture, with efforts made to preserve and promote this rich cultural heritage.

Meanings

The dance holds deep meanings and significance, representing the Chewa people's connection with their heritage, culture, and the spiritual realm. It embodies their values of respect, honor, and gratitude towards their ancestors and the natural world. Through the Gulewamkulu dance, the Chewa people continue to honor their traditions, pass down their cultural knowledge, and strengthen their community bonds.