Caju de Leitores Festival celebrates indigenous literature in Bahia

The 5th edition of the Caju de Leitores Festival is currently taking place at the Oca Tururim in Aldeia Xandó, located within the Barra Velha Indigenous Territory in Porto Seguro, Bahia. The event focuses on indigenous literature, oral traditions, and ancestral knowledge.

Initial activities highlighted the Patxohã language, with sessions designed to teach children ancestral words for animals, such as Mukusuy (fish) and Exna (jaguar). Participants emphasized that practicing the Patxohã language is essential for affirming Pataxó identity and connecting younger generations to their territory and ancestors.

The festival has also facilitated cross-border cultural exchanges, bringing together indigenous narratives from Brazil and Argentina. Discussions led by Argentine indigenous leader Mariela Tulián and Brazilian writers explored the connections between spirituality, territory, and literary production across the Abya Yala region. The program includes storytelling by elders like Maria Coruja, who is being honored this year, and writer Auritha Tabajara.