By Yekeen Olawale Wakeel
In the rich tapestry of Yoruba culture and tradition, drums hold a place of paramount importance. At the heart of this rhythmic heritage stands AyanAgalu, the revered Yoruba deity of drums, symbolising the genesis of drumming and its profound significance.
The history of Yorùbá drumming predates the intrusion of synthetic foreign musical instruments, which, over time, have eroded the sacred and creative essence of our cultural identities. Òrìs¡ÌÀyàn, the deity of drums, is hailed and eulogised as the spirit who resonates from within his wooden abode (Òrìs¡Ìgbé’núigifohùn), in reference to the log of wood from which the drums (ìlù) are meticulously fashioned.
OrisaAyan’s uniqueness lies not only in his creative dominance but also in the multilinguistic profundity he commands through the designated wood species, transcending the boundaries of time and history.
The drums remain an enviable tool of communal significance, embodying sociocultural values, contributing to modern liturgical and spiritual activities, impacting global popular culture, and continually attracting interdisciplinary intellectual attention in African literature and related fields.
The symbolic responsibilities of Àyàn drummers are deeply intertwined with human existence, and their captivating narratives travel through generations. Drums and drummers form the very foundation of our music, sounds, and numerous spiritual and cultural celebrations, forging pragmatic and profound connections with our lives. They become our trusted confidants, offering a diverse array of messages through their creative ingenuity and subtle senses of humour.
The Yoruba used to celebrate the incredible and unique contributions of Àyàn drummers to our contemporary society during the ÀyànÀgalú festival, as a sign of reawakening the extinctive of thus cultural significance and as such, we must unequivocally cherish and honour this cultural inheritance as a precious gift from Elédùmarè.
The efforts of AroleOódua, the Ooni of Ife, Oba EnitanAdeyeyeOgunwusi, the grand patron and OloriAderonkeAdemiluyi, the global Ambassador of AyanAgalu festival have gradually been regaining its cultural space. Their efforts have been yielding results.
The Ooni previously held the inaugural edition of the cultural festival in Ile-Ife last year and anticipating to the 2924 edition to promote the festival as a global fiesta.
AyanAgalu, a revered, one of the deities sent by Olodumare to the earth for the progress, development, and happiness of mankind, holds a significant place in the cultural identity of the Oduduwa race.
Seeking divine guidance, AyanAgalu consulted the Oracle through Orunmila, the deity of divination, to receive blessings for honour, wealth, and celebration among people and other deities.
Ifa divination revealed the sacred drumming tools and materials, such as sticks, skin, and drum belts, used for AyanAgalu’s revered sacrifice, a tradition that remains central to drumming ceremonies to this day.
The Oduduwa race, renowned as pioneers of drumming and music, shares an extraordinary connection with AyanAgalu. As deities call upon AyanAgalu to grace their ceremonies, the rhythmic beats and soul-stirring melodies bring joy and illumination to these auspicious occasions, in harmony with the ancient prophecies divined by Ifa.
In an effort to foster cultural exchange and global appreciation for traditional rhythms, the Ooni has been making frantic efforts in bringing back the culture. The modern civilisation has overwhelmed the AyanAgalu culture as children of the present generation hardly heard of the drum culture but of the hip pop artistic sound.
AyanAgalu Drums is an enchanting display of culture and heritage and should be celebrated as a festival, an unforgettable experience to pay homage to the rich tapestry of traditions woven through time. It will celebrate the rich drumming heritage of the Yoruba people. It will be used to elevate the festival’s significance and promote unity.
AyanAgalu is a cherished culture that promotes peace, harmony, and pride in our cultural identity. It is an exceptional experience in showcasing our drumming traditions to the world. A powerful show of unity.
The sacred AyanAgalu drum has historically served as an instrument for communicating the message of peaceful coexistence globally. It should therefore be promoted by cultural stakeholders in the country.
YekeenOlawaleWakeel | Chief Museum Education Officer, National Museum, Ile-Ife