NHC 2024 SYNOPSIS

Iansã, also known as Oyá or Yansan, is a powerful deity (orixá) in the Yoruba religion, which is associated with winds, storms, lightning, and fire. 

She originates from the Yoruba people of West Africa, particularly Nigeria. 

Iansã is widely revered in various Afro-American (Brazilian) religious traditions, such as Candomblé, Umbanda, and Santería, due to the transatlantic slave trade, which spread Yoruba religious practices to the Americas. 

• Yoruba Religion: In the Yoruba pantheon, Iansã is the orixá of winds, storms, lightning, and fire. She is associated with the Niger River, one of the largest rivers in Africa.

• Name and Attributes: The name "Oyá" refers to the Niger River, and she is often called "Iansã," which is believed to be derived from the Yoruba phrase "Iyá Mèsán," meaning "mother of nine," referencing her role as a mother figure.

• Mythological Stories: Iansã is often depicted as a fierce and independent warrior, known for her temper and bravery. She is the wife of Shango (or Xangô), the orixá of thunder and lightning. In mythology, Iansã is said to have stolen the secrets of fire from Shango, which is why she is also associated with fire.

• Symbolism: Iansã symbolizes transformation and change, akin to the wind's ability to alter landscapes and the lightning's capacity to strike and transform. She is a deity of change, guiding followers through transitions and upheavals.

• Syncretism: Due to the syncretism between African deities and Catholic saints in the Americas, Iansã is often associated with Saint Barbara, a Christian martyr associated with lightning and storms. This blending allowed enslaved Africans to continue their religious practices covertly.

• Festivals and Worship: Iansã is honored with various rituals and festivals. In Brazil, her feast day is celebrated on December 4th, coinciding with the feast of Saint Barbara. Devotees offer her foods like acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters) and other dishes associated with her.

• Attributes and Symbols: She is depicted with a sword or machete, a fly whisk (eruxin). Her colours are red and yellow, and she is often shown with buffalo horns, referencing her ability to transform into a buffalo. Also as a butterfly, referencing her ability to become one. 

• Brazil: In Candomblé, Iansã is one of the most venerated orixás, and her rituals are marked by drumming, dancing, and possession, where devotees believe she can possess and speak through them.

• Cuba: In Santería (Regla de Ocha), Iansã (Oyá) retains her fierce nature and association with the cemetery and the dead. She is considered the gatekeeper to the afterlife.

• Other Regions: In Trinidad and Tobago, Oyá is revered in the Orisha tradition, with similar attributes and stories.

• Pop Culture: Iansã has inspired various forms of artistic expression, including music, dance, literature, and visual arts in Brazil and around the world. She is often portrayed as a symbol of female empowerment and resilience. 

• Spirituality: Many contemporary practitioners of Afro-Brazilian religions continue to seek Iansã's guidance for personal transformation, protection, and strength in times of adversity.

Iansã's rich history and profound influence across multiple continents underscore her enduring significance in its diasporic expressions. As a powerful orixá associated with natural elements and transformation, she inspires and guides her followers through life's challenges and changes.

She's our padroeira, our School of Samba protector and guide. For our first NHC parade, we're honouring Iansã by drumming and dancing. We're celebrating her energy singing a beautiful song for her.

Be part of our history, join us for NHC 2024!

Epparey, Oyá!