Photo Story: Wild Men: the Ancient Pagan Ritual that still Thrives in Rural Bulgaria

Kukeri are men who take part in an ancient Bulgarian pagan tradition to scare away the evil spirits of winter. They gather to chant and dance, wearing home-made wooden masks, animal furs, horns and sequins, strapping on heavy belts with bells on that can weigh up to 70kg. The ritual has continued undisturbed through the centuries, even through Communist times when it was tolerated by the state. 

The higher on the social scale a kuker is, the more financial support he gives to the group. The money might go on collecting hundreds of bells (a set of 20 costs €1000) or finding the best goat fur for the long-haired costumes.

As contradictory as it sounds given the anti-Roma sentiment that often prevails in Bulgaria, in one region the ritual is preserved by a Gypsy tribe and its leader, who lends all his kukeri belongings to the younger boys.

We met kukeri from every corner of the country — mayors, solid working-class men, adolescents, boys and even two-years-olds — everyone takes part in this tradition. It’s a ritual so deeply carved in their hearts, it seems to be a core reason to stay in Bulgaria and not leave for Western Europe as so many people do. “Once you hear the sound of the bells, nothing can stop you — no matter how ill, poor or heavy-hearted you are”, said Liudmil, a kuker and third generation craftsman.

Kukeri have one thing in common — once they put the masks on, they seem to live a new life. In protecting their folklore and being proud to be born Bulgarian, kukeri are integrity personified. Prepared by the Calvert Journal. 

7 of 10 | August 1, 2017, Tuesday calvertjournal.com

Kukeri

More photo stories:

Winter's Embrace: Sofia Transforms into a Snowy Wonderland

Sofia, Bulgaria, recently transformed into a magical winter wonderland as snow blanketed the city in January. Streets and parks became serene, snow-covered landscapes, offering a rare and enchanting atmosphere....

January 26, 2024, Friday

Bulgarian Carolers in Kalofer

In the charming town of Kalofer, Bulgaria, carolers harmonize through the streets, embodying the spirit of the season. Dressed in traditional attire, these singers, known as "koledari," carry on a centuries-old tradition, spreading joy with melodies and wishes for prosperity and health....

December 25, 2023, Monday

Christmas Mood in Sofia

During the Christmas season, Sofia becomes a vibrant tapestry of festive cheer and merriment. The city adorns itself with an array of enchanting decorations, from glittering lights draped across buildings to elaborately adorned Christmas trees gracing the bustling squares....

December 9, 2023, Saturday

Autumn in Beautiful Sofia

Autumn in Sofia, Bulgaria, is a breathtaking symphony of colors and crisp, cool air. As the leaves on the trees turn various shades of red, orange, and yellow, the cityscape transforms into a picturesque canvas of natural beauty....

November 8, 2023, Wednesday

Bulgaria: Kukeri at the "Surva" Festival in Pernik 2023

The "Surva" festival is the oldest festival of masquerade games in Bulgaria and one of the largest in Europe. Due to the record number of participants - over 10,000 people, for the first time the festival was held for three consecutive days....

February 5, 2023, Sunday
more
Bulgaria news Novinite.com (Sofia News Agency - www.sofianewsagency.com) is unique with being a real time news provider in English that informs its readers about the latest Bulgarian news. The editorial staff also publishes a daily online newspaper "Sofia Morning News." Novinite.com (Sofia News Agency - www.sofianewsagency.com) and Sofia Morning News publish the latest economic, political and cultural news that take place in Bulgaria. Foreign media analysis on Bulgaria and World News in Brief are also part of the web site and the online newspaper. News Bulgaria