Kullawada

The Kullawada dance (kullawa) is a popular festive dance representing Aymara spinners and weavers. Men and women participate led by a Waphuri (an important person who when the word "Waphur" is shouted causes the choreography to change), is a dance well known in Bolivia folklore. The dance of the "Kullawas" also known as "Kullawada" comes from the Inca time and is linked to the activity of ancient spinners and weavers Some historians maintain that this dance belonged to the Inca nobility, it was danced by the ñustas and authorities of the empire . Other researchers maintain that several Aymara couples brought to the capital of the empire danced ceremonially to the delight of the Inca and the orejones (noble Cuzqueños) led by a guide, carrying a large spinning wheel with wool flakes, to represent the trade to which they dedicated themselves. its ethnic group, and the importance it had in the Aymara economy, culture and communication.

According to Sanginés, “La kullawada, agile, and plastic dance, with a choreography of double steps, with few figures and interspersed turns. It has a direct link to textile activity, of great importance in social and reciprocal relations between peoples. It is one of the most beautiful dances danced by the breeders of domesticated South American camelids (llamas and alpacas)… ”

Initially the suits were simple shreds with silver embroidery touches that made them look very elegant; It is in colonial times that it has a relapse due to the persecution of Andean culture that Westerners undertake in the famous war against idolaters. Later in the republican life, the kullawas were reborn again as a dance of spinners and it became rather a ritual dance accompanying the rite of the signalman; centuries later it becomes a dance of expression of ostentation and economic power thanks to modest merchants dedicated to the spinning mill and the like, turning the costume even more pompous, including pearls, gold leaf, silver and gold threads. Currently the costumes are mere representations of that power and continue to be stylized according to the thinking and lifestyle of young people.