A piñata is a brightly-colored papier-mâché covering either a clay container or cardboard shape. It originates in Mexico and has been a significant tradition of joy in that country for hundreds of years to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, Easter and sometimes an ordinary event. Because the occasion brings so much joy, in particular to children, more than one piñata is often used.
Contents |
International spread
Nowadays, piñatas have been adopted in many parts of the world and have become a more common sight at parties and celebrations, especially in Central America and the Southern United States, mostly due to the close influence from Mexican culture.
Piñatas have also been introduced to Europe over the last several decades, although at a much slower pace. India is one of few countries outside of the Americas to have adopted the Mexican tradition of the piñata for cultural celebrations.
Similar traditions
A similar tradition in Denmark is slå katten af tønden ("hit the cat out of the barrel") in which a wooden barrel is struck to release candy.
In South Indian villages, festivals feature a competition called Uri adithal (Pot breaking with blindfold) which is inspired by, and closely resembles the piñata event. In India, another similar tradition is associated with Lord Krishna's childhood. A pot is filled with money or treats and hung in public squares or on streets on Krishna's birthday. Youngsters climb on each others back to make a sort of human ladder. The chap right on top breaks the pot. Money showers on folks below.
In the Philippines, a clay pot or "palayok" is used without the papier-mâché decoration. Hence, the local name is "Paluan ng Palayok" or "Smash the Clay Pot".
In Brazil, a big balloon is used to hold the contents.
In Japan, a similar game called suikawari is played where a watermelon shell is used, instead of a piñata.
See also
References
 |
Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Piñatas |
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors (see full disclaimer)
