Gisèle “Omindarewa” - The destiny of a remarkable women
Omindarewa is the African name given to an 80 year old French women,
Gisèle
Cossard, who is highly esteemed in Brazil and Benin for her knowledge
and skills in the Candomblé religion, the Brazilian equivalent to African
Voodoo. After experiencing a trance in 1959, Gisèle accepted to become
initiated in this religion and became, like here compatriot Pierre
Verger, one of
the most respected personalities of this religion in Brazil. She
travels regularly to Benin and upholds the links between African
and Brazilian traditions in this same religion.
I have known her since
1988
and have
earned her confidence. For this reason, I have been able to photograph
various ceremonies in here terreiro during a number of visits to
Brazil. I have also accompanied her on a trip Benin where we took
part in ceremonies
and in divining and healing rituals. Her wide cultural knowledge,
curious spirit, incredible energy and fine sense of humour make
Gisèle “Omindarewa” a
deeply captivating woman.
PUBLICATIONS“Mémoires de Candomblé” - text by
Michel Dion L’Harmattan publications / 1997 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
