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  • Hamer Tribe Woman With A Manchester United  Football Shirt, Turmi, Omo Valley, Ethiopia
    ExPix_The_football_stars_of_tomorrow...jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The native house must be always cleared of the snow, so all day long, some cute volunteers work around.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS02.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  During the big celebrations like in Pyongyang for Arirang show, the native house is loudly applauded by the crowd in the stadium. Very few north koreans visited the area, but from the kindergarden, all north korean know this house.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS03.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The summit reaches 2,744 meters high. The local guide, wrapped up in his dog hair coat, narrates the exploits of the country’s founder. Winter lasts 8 months. She told the lowest temperature she had to afford was -36°!<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS06.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:   The north korean visitors must listen to a local guide that tell them the Paektu and Kim Il Sung story. They have heard thousands of times this fake story since they are children.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS07.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition5...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition6...jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: The view at the top is breathtaking. Paektu is an active volcano which last erupted in 1903. 1000 years ago Paektu was the place of one of the biggest eruptions in human history. The huge explosion caused the volcano’s crater to collapse, forming the Chon lake called.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS05.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  In summertime, the road leading to the top is free of snow and ice. Only a very strong wind blow all year long.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS04.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  Paektu is in all the mind of the north koreans as it is a myth for them. During Arirang show, it can be seen in the Kim Il Sung stadium with the sun rising up.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS11.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: The view at the top is breathtaking. Paektu is an active volcano which last erupted in 1903. 1000 years ago Paektu was the place of one of the biggest eruptions in human history. The huge explosion caused the volcano’s crater to collapse, forming the Chon lake called.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS08.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: Kim Jong Il Native Home. It is a wooden house in the forest where Kim Jong Il is supposed to be born on<br />
February 16, 1942. Inside, you can see the toys and blankets used by baby Kim. In fact Kim Jong-il was born<br />
in Siberia, Russia during his father's period of exile from Korea in 1941..<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS10.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  Kim Jong Il and his parents on a fresco in Paektu.They are called the “three commanders of Mt Paektu.”. The official bio says Kim Jong Il birth was believed to be supernatural as a double rainbow appeared, a new star emerged in the sky, and the season changed from winter to spring, when he was born.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS09.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: On arrival in Samjiyon airport, the luggages delivery is very quick and made by men in very nice uniforms.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS12.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: The villages around Smijyon are looking brand new, but if you look closer thru the windows of the houses, you can see proofs of the hard times people must afford there.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS14.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:   The remote area of Paektu experiences freezing temperatures in winter. I first went in may and the road was too icy , so the trip was cancelled.<br />
I came back the next year in summertime.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS13.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The local guide was very happy to meet foreigners as very few go there: too far, too cold, too expensive.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS15.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: The first stop of the pilgrimage is in Samjiyon Grand Monument. The famous statue of the bugler is a national icon in the DPRK that can be seen in many places.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS16.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: The first stop of the pilgrimage is in Samjiyon Grand Monument. The famous statue of the bugler is a national icon in the DPRK that can be seen in many places.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS17.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: Students walking on the steps of the nation s heroes, Mount paektu in samjiyon, North korea<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS18.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  There are many pictures and murals in the DPRK showing the leaders standing at Mt. Paektu , like this in the hotel at the feet of the volcano that welcome the foreigners.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS19.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  In Samjiyon museum, Paektu is displayed in front of a television showing the dear leaders visiting the place. On this day, the DVD was broken and a Microsoft logo was displayed!<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS20.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: The villages around Smijyon are looking brand new, but if you look closer thru the windows of the houses, you can see proofs of the hard times people must afford there.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS21.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  A north korean taking picture of the volcano. The weather is very cold in the area, and sometimes, the road that lead to the top is too icy for the old buses.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS22.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  Many carved writings can be seen and are kept:<br />
« 20 million compatriots boast of the Paektu star » , «Kim Jong Il is the star that rose in the sky over Mt Paektu ». The guides were proud to push on the green buttons to remove the protection and to allow me to see the trunks.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS23.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: Hotel of begaebong, North korea<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS24.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: Rimyonsu waterfalls, North korea<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS25.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: Kim il sung statue on mount paektu, North korea<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS26.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  As Kim Jong Il was born there, the propaganda says that soldiers wrote the news on the trees all around the country, to spread the information.<br />
Those trees are kept under special protection of glass and plastic as if they were holy relics. They look like giant condoms that go up and down with the help of an electric system.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS27.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The secret camp No.1 served as headquarters of the Korean People's Army. They are seen as heroes by the propaganda and the guides tell the visitors that their fireplaces are kept as relics!<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS28.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The Paektusan Secret Camp is an area where secret bases were built according to the policy put forward by Kim Il Sung.<br />
Very young guards with too big coats are taking care of this place.<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS29.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows: Group of students in front of mount baekdu, North korea<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS01.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The korean soldiers wrote on trees some slogans telling the aspirations of the Korean people to lead a happy life with Kim Il Sung as their leader .<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS30.jpg
  • PAEKTU, LAND OF NORTH KOREAN LEGENDS<br />
<br />
Mount Paektu volcano is considered a holy place for North Koreans. It is deemed the place of origin for them. The country's founding father Kim Il- Sung commanded anti-Japanese guerrilla in the 50’s from a secret camp in this place.<br />
North Korea says his son Kim Jong-il was born there in 1942. He was actually born in Siberia, where his father had taken refuge from Japanese troops.<br />
The dear Leaders are said to have a "mount Paektu bloodline ». A famous slogan says: « Let us all turn out in the general offensive to hasten final victory in the revolutionary spirit of Paektu! »<br />
A new probelm may erupt: when North Korea tests a nuclear weapon, specialists say the energy could trigger a volcanic...eruption in Paektu. That could be a huge disaster, killing thousands in North Korea and on the chinese side too.<br />
<br />
Photo shows:  The only way for foreign tourists to reach Paektu is by plane from Pyongyang to Samjiyon airport using an Air Koryo domestic flight. You will share the plane with soldiers. Those planes are very old and would be black listed in Europe. The use of my laptop was forbidden during the flight, long time before Trump did it too!<br />
©Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media
    ExPix_LAND_OF_NORTH_KOREAN_LEGENDS31.jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • April 13, 2016 - Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh - <br />
<br />
Hindu worshippers hang themselves from HOOKS and pierce their skin with metal rods as they take part in the folk festival <br />
<br />
Spectacular images have captured the celebrations of Charak Puja, a Hindu folk festival held in southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.  <br />
Celebrated on the last day of the last month in the Nepali calendar, people believe the festival will eliminate the sorrow and sufferings of the previous year and carry prosperity into the next. <br />
In this festival a human 'Charak' is made to satisfy the Lord Shiva. The 'Charak' is tied with a hook on his back and then he is moved around a bar with a long rope.<br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
<br />
After years of practice, they are able to pierce the sharp hooks without damaging the veins and causing less pain. They then use these hooks to swing around the tree.<br />
The Charak tree stands around 30 to 40 feet tall and has no roots or branches. The tree is worshipped by priests before being placed in a ditch and balanced by bamboos. <br />
After the Sanyasis perform their penance acts, the tree is immersed into the river. The Charak Sanyasis then brings it back to the puja ground, which is a local ground. <br />
<br />
The tradition behind Charak Puja is worshipping the Charak tree. Several acts of penance are performed by Charak Sanyasis around and on the tree on 14th April every year. This includes inserting hooks through devotees back. <br />
Amazingly, the priests are able to pierce sharp hooks at the bodies of participants with very little cut or injury. <br />
©Exclusivepix Media
    Exclusivepix_worshippers_hang_themse...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition5.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition6.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition7.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition8.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition9.jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition1...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition2...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition3...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
  • Benin’s Living Dead: The Voodoo Twins Tradition<br />
<br />
40% of the world’s twins are born in Africa. Benin’s Fon people have one of the highest occurrences at 1 in 20 births. The high rate of infant mortality and voodoo religion, Benin’s national religion, have begot some very particular practices concerning the deaths of one or both of these twins. In many other societies, twins are regarded as bad omens and often killed or abandoned at birth. However, in the Fon culture, twins have always been revered because Nana Buluku, voodoo’s androgynous creator of the universe, gave birth to twins. These twins in turn created the voodoo deities that run the world.<br />
<br />
Once a twin dies, a wooden statue called the “hohovi” is carved, within which the spirit of the dead child is placed. These figurines are deified and treated almost exactly like the living children. For the Fon, twins are immortal. They continue to live even after their death, bringing blessings or misfortune depending on if there are either pampered or abused.<br />
<br />
Three months after the birth of twins, if they are still living, the parents go collect gifts from other members of their community. If one or both of the twins die, then the mother carries the statues around between her breasts and walks around with a tray on her head, receiving alms for the twins.  All donate some money or food. The mother may even take some wares on display at the market. If a woman is rich or powerful, then she sends someone to conduct this collection in her place. <br />
<br />
In Bopa, a village situated on the banks of Lake Aheme in southern Benin, Dah Tofa and his wife reside. Dah Tofa, an educated man in his 60s, is a voodoo priest. His wife, who is around 40 years old, speaks only Fon. I ask for her name and she tells me the name she was born with, but this causes a bit of an incident. Her husband explains that she was supposed to say “Hounyoga”, the name of the voodoo goddess she worships whose name she took. Her husband tells me
    Exclusivepix_Voodoo_Twins_Tradition4...jpg
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