Call to Cancel Senya Beraku 'Eguradze' Custom.



Last Thursday, 27th January, 2022, the streets of Senya Beraku were flooded with female processions to the houses of all deceased persons who were to be buried during the weekend. These women carried on their heads assorted items called 'eguradze', beautifully wrapped in buskets, and silver and plastic bowls and buckets. 

The items included soaps, powder, cloths, rice, oil, towels, sponges, etc. and specific amount of money demanded by the deceased family from the deceased female in-laws and close relatives whose spouses are from the house. 

 As the name, 'eguradze' (bathing wares), implies, the items are meant to bath the dead before lying in state on Friday and Saturday. The older women of the maternal house of the deceased, who are responsible for bathing the dead, would share the money and the rest of the items after discharging their duties.

Years back, there were very few items presented for the 'eguradze', generally limited to what was needed for the bathing, and a small amount of money - or even no money at all. However, in recent times, huge amount of money demanded, and the presentation of several items, paraded through the principal streets ostensibly, have come under public criticism as being unnecessary and waste of resources that could be channelled into the education of children in the community.

It is reported that some female in-laws have to take loans to fulfill their part in order to avoid shame, seeing that of her rivals and the criticism she might face if she did not meet expectations. Thus, it has become a subject of competition and the search for 'glory'. Hence the rising call to cancel the practise. 

Some families have already bared the practise, while many still hold on to it. 

Abeiku Okai

29/01/22


Share your thoughts. Should it be cancelled? If not, what's your best proposal.

Comments

  1. Unknown29 January 2022 at 10:26

    I think it is a call on the right direction because the kind of money that goes in this, my brother you have not idea. I support that it should be cancelled. Thank you

    ReplyDelete

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