Takanakuy: The Christmas Tradition of Fighting in Peru
With the arrival of Christmas, the magic of the season begins to be felt. Green and red decorations fill the spaces, and Mariah Carey returns with her hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You” topping the music charts. For me, Christmas has always been bittersweet. I was born on that day, so I rarely had birthday parties or presents. My friends were always on the road. Now I celebrate for the kids and treasure one special gift each year: a handmade birthday card from my daughter, Gissel. However, I keep imagining a world where grudges are settled with organized fights on Christmas Day. A mix of kickboxing, wrestling and martial arts. All summed up in a Peruvian Ninja.
Takanakuy: A Reality in Chumbivilcas
In the province of Chumbivilcas, Peru, this is not just a fantasy. It is a real tradition. Takanakuya centuries-old custom, turns December 25 into a day for settling disputes through organized fights. High in the Andes, villagers wear colorful costumes and settle disputes with their fists in a cathartic celebration. Unlike the usual Christmas carols and feasts, this practice seeks to eliminate negativity and start the new year with a clean slate.
The term Takanakuy
Majeta Dress with the addition of a leather biker jacket, long leather cowboy pants and a dead bird or deer skull on top of the head. Most young men from indigenous communities choose this type of fighter for its intimidation factor.
Meaning “beating each other” in Quechua, it combines martial arts, cultural expression and social conflict resolution. Originating in Santo Tomás, this tradition has now spread to cities such as Cuzco and Lima. During the event, participants wear striking costumes based on Andean symbology. In a festive spirit and sometimes under the influence of local beverages, they confront their conflicts in order to release accumulated tensions.
Clear Rules of Engagement
Although it may seem chaotic, Takanakuy has strict rules. Community leaders, armed with whips, supervise each fight to ensure that it is fair. Participants wrap their hands in cloth, and no biting, hair-pulling or hitting someone on the ground is allowed. Once the fight is over, the opponents shake hands or hug each other. This gesture symbolizes that the conflict is behind them.
More Than Just Fights
Takanakuy is not limited to combat. It is a complete festival that includes dances, music and traditional costumes. Characters such as Majeno and Quarawatanna add humor and enrich the cultural context of the event. Families, including children, join in the festivities, strengthening community ties.
A Controversial Tradition
Some criticize Takanakuy as a violent practice. They point out that it can cause injuries. However, its defenders emphasize its value as a cathartic ritual that strengthens social bonds and prevents resentments from turning into bigger problems. Despite attempts by authorities to ban it, the tradition continues. Moreover, it has evolved to include people from diverse backgrounds.
From the Andes to the World
The growing worldwide attention on Takanakuy generates curiosity and debate. Some question whether it is an effective form of dispute resolution or an outdated method of justice. What is undeniable is that, for the inhabitants of Chumbivilcas, Takanakuy represents much more than a fight. It is a new beginning.
