The Bodi Tribe — Exploring the Fascinating Traditions of Ethiopia’s Obsession with Body Fat
From the fatting ceremony to unique beauty standards, discover the fascinating culture of the Bodi Tribe.
The Bodi tribe is a relatively small tribe located in southern Ethiopia, near the border with South Sudan. They are known for their unique and somewhat strange traditions and beliefs, which have drawn attention from outsiders in recent years. In particular, the tribe is known for its obsession with body fat, which plays a central role in its culture.
This fascination stems from their belief that being overweight signifies health, wealth, and prosperity. As a result, they engage in various practices that encourage weight gain, such as drinking large quantities of cow’s milk and blood and eating large amounts of meat and honey.
One of the most striking practices of the Bodi tribe is the “fatting ceremony.” This is a ritual that takes place annually, during which young men compete to gain as much weight as they can over a six-month period. The winner of the competition is considered a hero and is rewarded with gifts and accolades, which he takes back to his family.
During the ceremony, young men are secluded from the rest of the tribe and given a diet rich in milk, blood, and meat. They are also discouraged from…
