Tribe Profile: The Baining People of Papua New Guinea

While they live an otherwise quiet, unremarkable lifestyle, the Baining people are famous for one thing – The Fire Dance.

The origin of the fire dance ceremonies was to celebrate the birth of a child, the commencement of the harvest and remembering the dead.

This dangerous activity involves “Spirit Men” dancing into and out of a fire accompanied by music made from chanting voices and the beating of bamboo reeds against logs. As the music increases in intensity, the dancing becomes more frenzied and trance-like. Continue reading Tribe Profile: The Baining People of Papua New Guinea

Where I've Been

East New Britain, Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is a country unlike any other. It is one of the most linguistically diverse nations in the world with 839 recognized languages. Papua New Guinea is home to more than 600 indigenous tribes. Largely untouched by the modern world, the remoteness and isolation of the nation have served to preserve many ancient customs and traditions. Continue reading East New Britain, Papua New Guinea