Africa is a continent full of beauty its beauty can be seen through its places and
its people welcome to the amazing people of Africa series where we take a look at
some of the indigenous people of Africa we will be looking at their lifestyle
culture and getting to learn about life through their knowledge and experiences
in the heart of West Africa lies a secret a dance so mesmerizing so full of energy
that it's said to have been inspired by a woman whose Beauty defied Earthly standards get ready
to go behind the mask into the Vibrant Community where Rhythm and tradition
Collide in this video we look at the story behind the zi dance who created this enchanting dance
and why today we dive deeper into The Treasure of the guru people of Ivory Coast and their beautiful
culture in the 1950s it is said the Zuli dance was inspired by a young Guru girl jelu zi her
grace and loveliness was so extraordinary that it surpassed any Earthly comparison troubled by her
en Matic Beauty and fearing she might not be entirely human the guru people sought wisdom
from the spirits they felt that they needed to honor her the answer came as a demand to honor
Jella Lu zuli's Beauty the people must create a mask an artistic representation
of her Essence that would surpass even her own Allure this was the Genesis of the Zuli
Masque but the zi is more than just a dance it is a pillar of guro cultural identity
a testament to their artistic Ingenuity and profound social values there are seven types
of Zuli masks each steeped in a unique Legend representing different facets of the guro
worldview in performance the Zuli dancer Don an elaborate vibrantly
colored costume adorned with Rafia as he emerges to the rhythmic pulse of
musicians and singers his movements are astonishingly intricate a whirlwind of
footwork that seemingly defies gravity it is a sight as mesmerizing as it is
energetic Zuli promotes Unity within the guru Community solidifying their connection to their
Heritage and reminding them of shared values it also serves as an instrument
of social cohesion rival Villages might resolve disputes and reaffirm peace through shared Zuli
performances it is even said that a Zuli dance within a village can promote its prosperity and
well-being now that we know the history about the Majestic dance let's learn about the people
the guro people are an ethnic group primarily located in central Ivory Coast their traditional
way of life is centered around Agriculture and their social organization is structured around
lineage and Village affiliation renowned for their artistic Traditions they excel in wood
carving creating masks used in various rituals and ceremonies as well as intricate sculptures and
figurines the zi dance is a testament to the enduring Spirit of the guro people and
a testament to the power of art to shape a community its vibrant energy intricate
movements and profound social significance earned its recognition in 2017 as a UNESCO
intangible cultural heritage it stands not only as a source of Pride for Ivory Coast
but also as a dazzling example of the rich tapestry of of human
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