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Kogi People

The Kogi people are an Indigenous group residing in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in northern Colombia. They are descendants of the Tairona culture, a sophisticated society that prospered prior to the Spanish conquest. The Tairona were skilled builders, known for their stone structures and pathways nestled within the jungle. They also crafted numerous gold artifacts, which they adorned on trees and wore as jewelry.

Language and Culture

The Kogi speak the Kogi language, part of the Chibchan language family, and maintain a predominantly monolingual society. Interestingly, they use the Tairona language as a ritualistic language, preserving it as a testament to their rich cultural heritage. The Kogi identify as the "Elder Brother" and view themselves as custodians of the Earth, living in harmony with nature and striving to maintain ecological balance.

Social Structure and Beliefs

Kogi society is structured around a spiritual leadership headed by the Mamos, who are revered as guides and teachers. The Mamos play a central role in various rituals that mark the life cycles of individuals, from birth to death. These ceremonies typically involve offerings, dances, and other significant ritualistic activities. Burial customs, in particular, hold special importance for the Kogi.

In The Media

The Kogi gained international attention through their involvement in documentary films such as the 1990 BBC production "From the Heart of The World: Elder Brother's Warning" and its 2012 sequel "Aluna," both directed by Alan Ereira. These films convey the Kogi's urgent message to the modern world, whom they refer to as "Younger Brother," warning about the dangers of reckless ecosystem alteration and the desecration of sacred sites, which they believe contribute to climate change and impending global destruction.

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