The Tobas
The dance that represents the Amazonian regions of eastern Bolivia is the Tobas, with their dance they show part of the cultures that inhabited the jungle, but their influence reaches the entire highland region.
With a very acrobatic dance style, with agile and dynamic steps, it is one of the specialties that participates in the entrance of the Carnival of Oruro.
The Clothing of the Toba People and Its Main Elements
What mainly characterizes this dance is the use of feathers in the clothing; each group wears colors that characterize and identify them, showcasing unique and creative designs.
The attire of the Bolivian Tobas dance is a dazzling display of color and nature, where men and women wear elaborate costumes inspired by the warrior tribes of the Chaco region.
These costumes are characterized by vibrant feather headdresses on hats and anklets, vests, short skirts or breeches, and adornments of beads, fringe, and animal hooves that resonate with each athletic leap, symbolizing strength and a connection to the "spirit of the world" in a visual feast of youthful energy and cultural heritage.
The Tobas costume is a visual spectacle designed to allow the dancer maximum agility, adorned with elements that evoke the flora and fauna of Bolivia's tropical regions:
Men:
They wear vests, fringed pants, and hats with large feather headdresses. They wear anklets with feathers or animal hooves that jingle as they dance, as well as bracelets and, sometimes, symbolic elements such as spears or axes.
Women:
Undoubtedly, the designs of the Toba people's clothing highlight feminine beauty. They wear feathered headdresses adorned with embroidery and rhinestones, short fringed skirts, blouses, and anklets similar to those worn by men, always in vibrant colors and with elements that highlight their agility.Details:
The costumes are lightweight to allow for agile and athletic dance, with a mix of colorful fabrics and natural elements, reflecting the identity of the Chaco and Amazonian ethnic groups, such as the Guarani, in a representation of their bravery and warrior culture.
The feathered headdress: An impressive headpiece adorned with tall, colorful bird feathers (the use of synthetic materials is currently encouraged to protect wildlife).
The tunic or short poncho: Decorated with beads, fringe, seashells, and embroidery depicting nature motifs.
Anklets and armbands: Traditionally made from seeds or feathers, creating sound with every step and arm movement.
Ceremonial weapons: Men typically carry spears, bows, and arrows, which they use to perform hunting or combat choreographies.
The dance
It is known as an acrobatic dance because its dance steps include a series of high and prolonged jumping, in addition agile movements are performed which requires a special physical preparation, because the route is long.
Names of the Tobas dance steps and how to perform them
The Tobas choreography demands excellent physical fitness. The steps recreate hunting postures, combat, and shamanic rituals. The best-known movements are:
El Paso Bolívar: A high, alternating leg-jump that demonstrates the warrior's agility.
El Camba: An agile step simulating stalking and rapid movement through the dense jungle.
El Chucu-Chucu: A rapid hip and foot movement performed in a squatting position, simulating defense or camouflage.
El Salto de la Lanza: A movement in which the dancer raises their arms and spear, simulating an attack on prey or an enemy.
The true origin and history of the Tobas dance
It has remote origins, when the Incas in the expansion of their domains passed through several territories. They expanded eastward to places where they met natives who used skins and had as heads a couple of shamans, who were engaged in rituals, in this way they joined the Incas and inhabitants of these jungle regions.
The Origin
The origin of the dance dates back to the era of the Inca Empire. Oral tradition and historical research indicate that the Inca Túpac Yupanqui, after consolidating his rule over the peoples of the Amazon and the Chaco (generically known as "Tobas"), was impressed by their warrior skills and ritual dances.
As a measure of cultural assimilation, the Inca relocated groups of these natives to the Andean region under the mitimaes system. Over the centuries, this representation of jungle warriors became integrated into the urban festivities of the high-altitude region, evolving into the folk dance known today.
Culture:
These tribes are traditionally nomadic hunters, fishers, and gatherers, inhabiting the Gran Chaco region in parts of Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia. It is said that Túpac Yupanqui, the leader of the Incas, attempted to conquer these jungle tribes, but failed due to their resistance, though they were impressed by their strength.
Current Context:
Unfortunately, many Toba communities in Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay currently face extreme poverty and still preserve aspects of the culture inherited from their ancestors.
Evolution of the Dance:
The dance was adopted and reinterpreted in Bolivia, fusing Andean culture with Amazonian and Chaco elements. The steps and costumes represent the warrior character of these tribes; with agile steps, jumps, and music, they imitate hunting, attacking, and the nomadic life of jungle warriors.
Significance of the Tobas Dance at the Oruro Carnival
In the context of the Oruro Carnival and the Gran Poder Festival, the Tobas dance has evolved from a mere war dance into an act of devotion to the Virgin of Socavón or the Lord of Gran Poder.
The athletic movements symbolize the strength, courage, and resilience of indigenous peoples in the face of colonization. Each leap represents a sacred offering and a demonstration of faith, putting the dancer's physical endurance to the test throughout the kilometers-long procession.
Where can you see the Tobas dance?
Oruro Carnival:
It became popular as a devotional dance during the festival, with groups such as "Tobas Central," "Tobas Zona Sud," and "Tobas Uru Uru" participating in the devotional parade in Oruro. It is a cultural expression that attracts visitors from all over the world and is a key expression of Bolivian folklore, celebrating the heritage of the Chaco and Amazonian nations.
Each group wears a distinctive and unique outfit that sets them apart, and within each group there are subdivisions called blocks that also have a different appearance.
Characters participating in the Tobas dance
Within a Tobas fraternity, there are hierarchies and specializations that vary according to the costume and the choreographic role:
The Chief or Troop Leader:
In the Tobas the Cacique was the chief of the tribes who enjoyed certain privileges, whose leadership could be inherited, but the chosen one had to show special skills for hunting and fishing or for the cure of diseases.
In dance it is about representing these customs and structures, the Caciques are the ones who lead the groups of dancers that are part of the tribes.
He is the group's leader, wears the most colorful outfit, and directs the changes in steps with a whistle.
Tribes and ethnicities
In the Tobas the tribes were political units that were under the command of a chieftain. This figure is reflected in the dance, the dancers of the blocks are parts of these tribes. The dancers wear colorful costumes with feathers and are the ones who perform the most difficult steps with high jumps, agile movements.
- Warrior Tobas: The main group of men who perform the highest leaps and carry spears.
- The Amazons: A group of women distinguished by their grace, agility, and stylized costumes featuring feathers and fringe.
- Witch Doctors or Shamans: Mystical figures wearing masks or carrying ceremonial staffs, responsible for the tribe's spiritual guidance.
Groups and fraternities at the Oruro Carnival
The Fraternities and ensembles that dance the dance of the Tobas at the Oruro Carnival Entrance are the following:- Tobas South Folkloric Ensemble
- Tobas Central Zone Fraternity
- Tobas Uru Uru Artistic and Cultural Complex
