Indian Super Sunday- the world’s most interesting campaign.
So we pushed aside various responsibilities yesterday afternoon to wait for hours for the Indian royalty to strut their stuff, and it was well worth it, as always.
A brief history for them what’s never seen it: the Mardi Gras Indians have been around for well over 100 years and started as part alternative to Mardi Gras (where only whites were allowed to participate) and part homage to the native tribes in the area who would take in runaway slaves and hide them from their masters.
Pre-Katrina there were almost 40 tribes, but those numbers have been reduced by circumstance. Super Sunday is where many of the downtown tribes get together and show off their costumes- and run for high office of Zulu King for 2008.
Before the parade begins, there’s chanting, dancing, and stylized challenges between the different tribes, although the big battles happen on Mardi Gras day.
Each member creates their own new costume every year, hand beading and creating mosaics and panels- it’s not unusual for these costumes to weigh upwards of 100 lbs, and for the finishing touches to be sewn on just hours before being shown off.
These are just a few pics- click here for a full slideshow of the day!
Incidentally, this is one of the worthy & unique local traditions currently being propped up by Tipitina’s Foundation at the moment. Those beads & feathers get expensive and are simply beyond the reach of people still getting their lives back together. We have a standing offer of 30% off feathers for the tribes if you’d like to make a direct donation- call or email for details if you’re interested!
Similar Posts:
