Moyngo, The Dream of Maragareum

The Ikpeng community acts out the myth of the origin of their tattooing ceremony. The mythical hero and shaman Maragareum dreams about a disaster in his friend Eptxum's village. Arriving in this village, he finds everyone dead, and so he hides at nightfall to see the spirits return. Hunting, dancing and making special porridge and decorations, the spirits prepare for the ritual in which they tattoo their children. Maragareum watches and learns learns the Moyngo ceremony from the spirits of the dead, and those watching the video are able watch and learn about it as well.

Disclaimer on Naming:
Please be aware that this documentary may include outdated or potentially offensive language. Such terms are not endorsed by DER but are presented in their original context to promote awareness, education, and discussion. Learn more about DER’s efforts to use reparative language and honor the preferred names of Indigenous communities by clicking here.