Return of the Ekeko: A symbol of hope for Bolivia!

Return of the Ekeko: A symbol of hope for Bolivia!

The story of the "Ekeko" figure, an important symbol of Bolivian culture, is a fascinating example of dealing with historical cultural heritage and its return. In 1858, Swiss naturalist Johann Jakob von Tschudi in Bolivia illegally suited the Ekeko figure when he removed it from the Holy site of Tiwanaku. It was not until 2014, 150 years later, the sculpture, which is made in the style of the Pucara, was returned to Bolivia. This return took place as part of a solemn ceremony in the National Museum of Archeology in La Paz, where the heirloom is reunited with its cultural context.  Watson reports that Tschudi collected many artifacts during his travels and the Ekeco statue in his book "Journey through South America" (1869) documented. In this appropriation, Tschudi underwent the pressure of Cognac, which was perceived by the indigenous peoples as highly illegal. Despite his knowledge of the sacred value of the figure and the associated offerings that were provided to the Aymara gods, the appropriation did not seem questionable.

The return of the Ekeko was not an easy process. The Bolivian diplomat Elizabeth Salguero Carrillo initiated the return, which was supported by cultural policy under Evo Morales, who was aiming for an upgrading of the indigenous cultures from 2006. However, the way to return was accompanied by skepticism; The Bernese Historical Museum created conditions, which led to tensions. The decision of the cantonal parliamentary Bern, which voted with 117 votes for the return, was finally carried out by a crucial step to solve the matter.

The Alasitas Festival and the Ekeko cult

The return of the Ekeko figure was celebrated during the Alasitas festival, which takes place every year on January 24th in La Paz and lasts for several weeks. This tradition, which was launched by Sebastián de Segurola in 1781, attracts many visitors who acquire the miniature goods that they want to own in full size in the current year. Ekeko, as a central figure of this festival, is worshiped as a lucky charm and mystical deity, which brings prosperity and energy into the new year. Statuettes of the Ekeko are widespread at the stands in the city, and the tradition of harmony with Pachamama, Mother Earth, plays an important role. Travel Bolivia reports that the Alasitas Festival has been recognized as a UNESCO culture heritage since 2017, which is reflected in in contradiction to the Aymara values ​​of balance and community.

For the Bolivians, Ekeko is a kind of saint, even if the Catholic Church does not recognize him. The offers carried out are a way to thank him and have to be blessed by an Aymara Spiritual leader (Yatiriri). The Ekeko not only embodies the striving for material prosperity, but also the cultural wealth and the spiritual legacy of the Bolivian people.