Overview
Vibrant public celebration in the Diaspora. Transitioned from river deity in Nigeria to Queen of Oceans in the Americas. Famous February 2nd celebration in Bahia.
Cultural Safety
Limited to public coastal festivals. Private initiation rituals (Feitura de Santo) or inner-shrine baths (Amaci) are not documented.
Ritual Instructions
- Basket Preparation: Devotees prepare straw baskets (presentes) with gifts.
- Procession: Baskets carried to shore with drums and singing.
- Maritime Offering: Fishermen take baskets to deep water. Sinking signifies acceptance.
- Bathing: Participants wade into water or pour sea water over heads for purification.
Spiritual Significance
Primordial mother and source of life. Vastness of unconscious mind. Time for purification (cleaning the head/Orí), requesting fertility, and seeking protection for those on water.