Diablillos Ecuador

Is it possible for a cultural tradition to embody rebellion, artistry, and a touch of the macabre all at once? The "Diablada de Pllaro," a vibrant festival in Ecuador, is a resounding yes, a testament to the enduring spirit of a people expressed through dance, costume, and a defiant embrace of the infernal.

The Diablada, as a cultural phenomenon, defies a simple definition. As Nstor Bonilla, a councilor from Pllaro, aptly puts it, "The origin of the Diablada cannot be defined as an event that happened on a specific date; the Diablada is a process." This "process" began during the colonial era, born as an act of rebellion, a fusion of indigenous and mestizo resistance against the ruling powers and the Catholic Church. It's a narrative etched onto the very fabric of the community, passed down through generations, evolving and adapting while retaining its core essence: a celebration of identity and a challenge to authority.

The heart of the Diablada lies in its iconic figures: the "diablillos," or little devils. These aren't mere playthings, however appealing they may appear. The elaborate costumes, adorned with intricate masks and vibrant colors, are a visual spectacle. Their designs draw inspiration from the devils of Pllaro and the carnivals throughout Ecuador. It's a visual language, a form of storytelling where the masks themselves communicate tales of defiance, satire, and the enduring power of folklore.

• Snoop Dogg Country

Feature	Details
Festival Name	Diablada de Pllaro
Location	Pllaro, Tungurahua Province, Ecuador
Date	January 1st - 6th, annually
Main Activities	Dances, parades, costume competitions
Cultural Significance	Declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Ecuador in 2009. Represents rebellion, resistance, and cultural identity.
Historical Context	Rooted in colonial times, symbolizing indigenous and mestizo resistance against colonial rule and religious authority.
Key Figures	"Diablillos" (little devils) in elaborate costumes.
Key Symbolism	Celebration of the duality of good and evil, embodying the human experience through folkloric dance and costume.
Reference Website	Wikipedia - Diablada de Pllaro

The Diablada is not without its darker side, a reminder that beauty can be intertwined with danger. The use of fireworks, or "juegos pirotcnicos," adds a thrilling element to the festivities, however, these are not toys. These pyrotechnic displays can contain potent gunpowder and are capable of causing severe burns, disfigurement, or even amputation. Similarly, "diablillos," small firecrackers, are known to be associated with suicide attempts, and contain white phosphorus, a dangerous chemical that can lead to liver damage and in some cases, death. The tragedy of Paola's passing serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with these substances. As Rody Camino, disaster response coordinator for the Red Cross, has pointed out, the danger of these firecrackers lies in their indiscriminate nature, the potential to cause harm to anyone regardless of age or circumstance.

The Diablada de Pllaro, like any significant cultural event, weaves its way through local legends and stories. The tale of Cantua, the Quito contractor who made a pact with the devil to build the San Francisco Convent, is a well-known legend in Ecuador. According to the oral tradition, Cantua, behind schedule on his construction project, struck a deal with the devil. In exchange for his soul, Lucifer would mobilize his diablillos to work through the night, ensuring the completion of the task. Lucifer agreed, and with the help of his "diablillos" the work progressed at an astonishing pace. The construction neared completion just before midnight, the agreed-upon deadline. As the devil prepared to receive his payment, Cantua, resourceful and quick-witted, intervened, pointing out that the final stone had not been placed. With the deal broken, Cantua secured his freedom, a victory of human ingenuity over the forces of darkness.

The streets of Pllaro, nestled in the northern reaches of Tungurahua province, transform into a stage for this annual spectacle. From January 1st to 6th, the town is overrun by thousands of "diablillos" who fill the streets. Declared as an intangible cultural heritage site in 2008, it is a celebration that has been held for as long as anyone can remember.

• Simran Kaur Bhogal

The "Diablada de Pllaro" is more than just a festival; it is a living embodiment of a community's history, resilience, and artistic expression. It's a vibrant tapestry woven from threads of resistance, folklore, and the enduring human spirit. The "diablada" is an ongoing process, a testament to the enduring strength of cultural identity and the transformative power of art. It is a reminder that within the heart of any tradition, there's often a dance of defiance, a celebration of life, and a unique story waiting to be told.

In the realm of cultural celebrations, the Diablada de Pllaro stands apart. For those who choose to attend, the vibrancy of the "diablos sesquicentenario" in the city of Riobamba in Ecuador offers a unique cultural experience. This vibrant event and traditional performance are just a part of the enduring power of this celebrated custom.