In a vibrant celebration of spirituality and thanksgiving, the Odun Ifa festival took center stage in Igbo-Ifá Orunmila, São Paulo, Brazil. Led by the esteemed spiritual leader, Oba (Ogboni) Adekunle Aderonmu, who is also the president of the African Cultural Center, devotees and participants gathered to express gratitude to Olodumare for the blessings bestowed upon them and humanity throughout the year 2023.
The festival, deeply rooted in Yoruba traditions, honored Ifa, the deity of wisdom and divination, with a series of ceremonies, rituals, and cultural displays. The air was filled with the rhythmic beats of traditional drums, as vibrant colors adorned the streets of Igbo-Ifá Orunmila.
According to Oba Adekunle Aderonmu, who spoke passionately during the festivities, “Ifa has done a lot of good to us throughout the whole year, it’s time for thanksgiving, so we have come to thank Ifa.” The Ogboni King’s words resonated with the crowd, emphasizing the profound impact of Ifa’s guidance on the lives of the devotees.
The spiritual leader, also the president of the African Cultural Center, further highlighted the importance of preserving African traditions and fostering cultural understanding. The fusion of Brazilian and Yoruba cultures during the festival exemplified the richness of cultural diversity and the unity it can inspire.
Devotees and attendees, dressed in traditional Yoruba attire, participated in various rituals symbolizing their appreciation for the wisdom and protection provided by Ifa. Oba Adekunle Aderonmu’s leadership added a layer of reverence and wisdom to the celebrations, creating a harmonious atmosphere that echoed the essence of Odun Ifa.
As the festival concluded, the vibrant spirit of thanksgiving lingered in the air, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the community and reinforcing the cultural ties that bind the people of Igbo-Ifá Orunmila, São Paulo, Brazil.
Photos : Raisa D .
