EL NAÍL
Néstor Jiménez Díaz | Mexico 2013 | 28 Min. | OmeU
Sántiz Alonso López is el Naíl, an old rezador (traditional preacher) who tells the story of his work in the town of Tenejapa, Chiapas. It is his duty to protect life and to ensure the spiritual wellbeing within the community. But nowadays only few people appreciate his efforts. Due to the influence of other religions and the emergence of new ways of living, people do not ask for his advice as much as in the old days. Amid the increasing land conflicts and everyday quarrels, Alonso is concerned. However, there are still some people who have faith in his abilities and follow the traditional ways. During the preparations for the New Year’s festival that lasts for 13 days, we meet the people of El costumbre, in whose lives the belief in the power of nature and prayer remains vital. In organizing the carnival with its brightly colored traditional costumes and its animating music, they rekindle a sense of community and show the importance of contemporary Maya-Tzeltal culture.
