OSOGBO – Following traditional divination ceremonies, 12-year-old Osunbunmi has been chosen as the new Arugba (sacred calabash bearer) for the renowned Osun-Osogbo Festival in Southwest Nigeria.
Selected through rigorous spiritual consultations conducted by chief priests under the guidance of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Osunbunmi will now carry the profound responsibility of leading the festival’s grand procession to the Osun River. As Arugba, she will balance a calabash containing sacred offerings believed to secure the river deity’s blessings for community prosperity.
The position, traditionally reserved for young virgins who symbolize purity and divine connection, is central to the two-week cultural celebration, which UNESCO has recognized as a global cultural treasure.
Community elders have noted that while preserving the spiritual essence of this ancient tradition, modern adaptations now include measures to protect the chosen girl’s educational and social development following her ceremonial duties.
Photo: Osogbo Updates
