Village holds ‘my blood is boiling’ grudge matches in Christmas Day fighting tradition
The festive chaos is called Takanakuy, translating to ‘when the blood is boiling’ in Quechua, and takes place in the Peruvian province of Chumbivilcas on Christmas Day.
In this bloody grudge matches long-held resentments are hashed out.
The Takanakuy, translating to “when the blood is boiling” in Quechua, and takes place in the Peruvian province of Chumbivilcas. Anyone nursing a grudge over the last year can call out another villager’s name, with the fighters then wrapping their knuckles in cloth before stepping into a circle to have it out.
Fight of Love
Fighters’ fists are bound with cloth, which decreases the danger of lasting injury
Fighters often disguise themselves by masking up so employees can take on their bosses without fear, but thankfully a referee is called in for the festive fist-up so no crazy damage is done.
There’s also a variety of “character” costumes to choose from, including a lobster and cowboy, if you’re feeling particularly fun.
Like most battles the fight ends when one person gets knocked out or the ref decides the match can’t go on, while spectators are kept under control by assistant referees carrying whips.
Property disputes and romantic rivalries also spark conflicts in the village, with some skirmishes arising from tipsy villagers seeking a tussle – particularly as the day wears on.
Initially exclusive to men, these scuffles have seen an increasing number of women entering the fray to settle scores regardless of whether the combatants are men, women, or children, each fight culminating in an amiable hug or handshake.
The fights are said to be the key for a harmonious society.
Peruvians claim to step into the New Year unburdened by any lingering animosity towards their neighbours, believing the conflicts clear the air for a fresh start.
One local Victor Jaime Mantilla told Vice magazine: “This is a way to maintain order in Chumbivilcas. A lot of districts around here don’t have police stations. It’s one of the first things they should have in a zone like this, but there’s nothing because this is how laws are regulated here…
Combatants usually enjoy a drink together after the fight.
“Before, justice in Chumbivilcas was solely administered by powerful people, people from the community always lost their case. What can I do with a justice like that? I’d rather have my own justice in public.”
“It’s a way for the people to speak up,” Victor added. “It’s like we solve it here and we start something new, but in peace.”
A victory can earn the successful fighter lasting prestige.
