In Western culture, a man with long hair has often been thought of as a hippie, an anomaly in society who goes against the grain and to the beat of his own drum. In Native American culture, long hair has actually been the norm throughout history. Long, flowing locks were admired and respected.
In fact, this is what makes Longhair, or Angak’china, a perfect example of a true Hopi Katsina. He wears a traditional Hopi hairstyle utilized by men.
The purpose of the Longhair Katsinam is to provide rain to the Hopi villages. They arrive in the villages in groups, often accompanied by Yellow or White Corn Maidens. They sing beautiful melodies for all, carrying optimistic themes and messages encouraging living life to its fullest. A true beacon of positivity, Longhairs are cherished as favorites among the Hopi Katsinam.
In addition to raising spirits by way of song, Longhair Katsinam perform a dance that usually brings a pleasant rainfall to nourish the earth and help crops to grow.
Their appearance is largely symbolic of their role in society. Their long, flowing hair and beards, for example are representative of the rain they inspire to fall. Eagle fluffs are worn to symbolize cloud bursts as the source of that rain. Their backs are often adorned with feathers to represent prayers for rain.
There are numerous varieties of Longhair Katsinam. At Kachina House, we carry a selection of Longhair Katsinam so that you can invite these inspiring Hopi favorites right into your home.
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I visited Hopi many years ago & was privileged to watch the Long Hair dances – the chanting was unlike anything I’d ever heard before… the depth of spirit permeated the plaza.
When they started dancing, the sky was clear… Not a cloud in the sky. Toward the end of the dance a few small clouds appeared… we were treated to some rainshine – sunny, but it was definitely raining.
There is ALWAYS a soft rain…even rainshine when the Longhairs dance. The resonance of their voices and the soft pounding on the desert floor can touch your heart, your soul and bring tears to your eyes (more rain). Thank you for sharing.