The "Bird man" or "Woniléghagui" is a ritualistic dancer of the Toma ethnic group, from the Forest region of Guinea. Dressed in feathers, it imitates the bird in its gestures, while retaining his secrets and dance steps.
Unlike the other dancers of the sacred forest, Woniléghagui is a harmless dancer symbolising the values of Toma country. It usually appears during festivals, burial ceremonies, the death of a traditional ruler or during the ceremonies of the initiates of the sacred forest.
Because of the deep-rooted traditions in the forest area, this mythical dancer of the sacred forest has defied time and space and will continue to do so for future generations.
Credit: National Tourist Board of Guinea
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