Traditional Carnival of "The Chinelos",Tepoztlan, State of Morelos.
Part of my ongoing work in Mexico.
The word "chinelos" derives from the Nahuatl (language of the Uto-Aztecan language family) which means"disguised". This tradition is a blend of indigenous and Catholic traditions. The role of the "Chinelos" is to make fun of Europeans, their fine clothing, beards and mannerisms (from the colonial period up to the end of the 19th century). Probably the town of Tlayacapan is where this tradition has started and the Chinelos dancers are now a symbol of Morelo's state.
