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Seychelles Moutya: From Slavery's Sorrow to UNESCO Fame
11 Mar
Summary
- Moutya is a sensual dance expression from Seychelles, born from slave sorrow.
- Despite its sensuality, dancers never touch, a key element of its expression.
- Once outlawed, the Moutya was recognized by UNESCO in 2020.
The Moutya, a cultural experience created in Seychelles by African slaves, blends sensual dance, rhythmic drumming, and lamentation songs. It served as an outlet for expressing sorrow while also sharing stories of life and love.
Characterized by sensuous movements, the dance traditionally involves no physical contact between performers. It was often performed at night and in secrecy.
Following the abolition of slavery, the Moutya faced suppression. The Drums Legislation of 1935, enacted under British rule, effectively outlawed the practice. This restrictive law remained in effect for decades.
Remarkably, the Moutya's cultural significance was officially recognized in 2020 when it was inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This significant achievement followed the repeal of the discriminatory Drums Legislation in 2018.
