About the Video:
The documentary follows a journey from the village of Charkapata in the Q'ero Nation to Tipon, an Inca Water Temple outside Cusco, Peru. It centers on Don Mariano and his family creating a Despacho ceremony to celebrate the completion of "Hanaqpacha Intiq Sombran" (Mother Earth Sun Shadow in Quechua), a collaborative installation. The film weaves through the ceremony, highlighting key elements of traditional Q'ero life: weaving, coca, llamas, alpacas, and dance.

The Despacho Ceremony:
This ritual is fundamental to Andean culture, strengthening harmony, reciprocity, and reverence for Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (mountains). Performed by Andean priests as keepers of ancient natural wisdom, the Despacho is an offering that nourishes the natural world while protecting the human realm. Similar to the Tibetan Sand Mandala, this ceremonial art form represents a microcosm of Andean life.

Please send us a message if you are interested in working with the Q’ero at CHOKECHAKA.