THE HISTORY OF UTANI AND BURIAL TRADITIONS OF THE BONDEI PEOPLE

Utani and burial traditions are the very common practices in the current Bondei community. The traditions have been in practice since the formation of the society. In this study the two traditions are used in attempt to understand the identity of Bondei people. Burial customs of the Bondei has been in constant transformation. In the beginning clan identities played a significant role in attracting people of other clans to come and mourn together. The burial of unidentified stranger was not considered important and may be carried out only by the clan they visit. Burials involved other traditions major identified is Utani. curing witches was another context where Utani was practiced. Convenient with other traditions, Utani was held predominantly in a forty day from the burial date. The purpose of Utani was to create friendship and comfort the clan which relative has died. The coming of world religions probably around 1850s affected the way burial traditions were to be carried out. Islamic and Christian burial cultures were to be followed parallel with the indigenous traditions.

Keywords:

Identity, Burial custom, Utani, Bondei, Islam History,

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