The Mentawai is a tribe native to the Mentawai Islands, off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. This group is made up of about 64,000 individuals spread over different islands, highlighting the island of Siberut, northern Pagai and southern Pagai and the island of Sipura. This interesting ethnic group is characterized by being semi-nomadic hunters.
Within the traditional Mentawai culture, the 'uma' have an important role. They are communal houses with walls made of woven bamboo strips and grass roofs. The base of the floor is raised on stilts and is made of wooden planks. They use the skulls of the animals they hunt to decorate the 'uma'.
Mentawai culture is imbued with a deep spirituality. They practice an animistic religion called 'Arat Sabulungan', which links the supernatural power of ancestral spirits with the nature that surrounds them in the rainforest. They believe that all objects, as well as living and inert beings, have a spiritual essence that must be respected. Some of these elements are even considered sacred.
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The more traditional Mentawai population still practice body modification. The most common practices are tattooing, as well as sharpening the teeth.
The Mentawai ethnic group still maintains its traditions despite globalization. Their way of life maintains a balance between their ancestral society with the environment that surrounds them.
© Photos by Aníbal Bueno
ES