Warachicuy, the Inca initiation ceremony, is currently in force, organized and carried out exclusively by the students of the Colegio Nacional de Ciencias (emblematic school of Cusco). This school has the honor of staging this Inca tradition due to the history and tradition that this educational institution in Cusco has.
Warachicuy ceremony
Summary
Do you know what the Inca Initiation ceremony called Warachicuy is?
Warachikuy is a Quechua word that comes from the word “Wara” (loincloth or underwear). The word would be the equivalent of “ritual or celebration to receive the wara.” Of course, after having qualified tough tests of physical prowess.
In the times of Tawantinsuyu (as the Inca empire is called) during the 15th and 16th centuries, the Warachikuy developed in the southern hemisphere. Rite through which the passage from childhood to adulthood was officiated for men, who would then become part of the community or ayllu. Kinship that requested new spiritual and physical ties and commitments, an event that was not at all easy in their lives.
How is the ceremony performed?
This Inca initiation ceremony was based on rigorously completing a series of tests of courage, bravery and skill through physical risks, combats, games, among others. Those who passed at the end of said contest received the respective recognition and a distinction from the Inka.
The Warachikuy was also a competition that evaluated the physical, mental, spiritual and intellectual maturity of adolescents to receive “citizenship” and be considered warriors and/or rulers. To successfully pass such a difficult task. Their families and teachers prepared them from the age of 12. The competition was held with everyone who had turned 17 or 18 years old and lasted at least 30 days. Those who were victorious were given the Wara that represented the honor and rank with which they would be recognized both in the period of peace or war.
Among the most important tests were the construction of bridges and roads, in addition to the fasting and waking nights that they had to endure. In this way they showed that they were ready to face extreme circumstances.
Warachicuy in Vilcashuaman
The Warachikuy was often included in the celebrations of the Capac Raymi festival associated with the summer solstice.
This Inca initiation ceremony became relevant since 1440, a period in which Pachacutec assumed power of the Inca empire.
This Inca initiation ceremony was celebrated in the most important towns of the empire, including: Machu Picchu, Choquequirao, Vilcabamba, Cuenca, Huanuco, Ayacucho and with greater pomposity in Cusco.
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