BORI, HEALERS OF THE SOUL

Bori is a religion based on spirit possession. In Niger the term Bori means the act of being possessed by a spirit, but it can also refer to the spirits who periodically invade human bodies during theatrical and colourful rituals known in Hausa—one of the major languages of Niger—as wasani. On certain nights the sharp clatter of calabash drums bursts from the mud walls of a compound, drowning the noises of radios and televisions. People slowly gather in a circle as musicians sing praise songs. These gatherings are performances held to honour the spirits and strengthen the bonds they share with humans. 

Extract of the introduction text by Adeline Masquelier of the book ‘Caroline Alida, BORI Healers of the Soul’

Niger 2003-2010