Inherited from ancestors and transmitted uninterrupted from generation to generation, the traditions of Imady remain deeply rooted in the daily life of its inhabitants. From famadihana to the mutual aid system "atero ka alao", the community continues to preserve its cultural identity in respect of values bequeathed by elders.
At a time when many ancestral practices are disappearing under the effects of modernization, Imady stands as an exception. In this Betsileo locality, traditions and customs still occupy a central place in the life of the population. Each ceremony, whether a famadihana, house inauguration, wedding or rite of passage, is organized according to rules transmitted by ancestors. For inhabitants, these practices constitute not only cultural heritage: they represent a true way of life, founded on respect for elders, family solidarity and transmission of values to new generations.
"Famadihana is a heritage we received from our ancestors. We have perpetuated it from generation to generation to remind us of the bonds that unite our large family, to introduce each new generation and to pay tribute to our deceased parents," explains Jacquot Randriamampianina, representative of Anaran-dray Lazalay Sanimbo Tsimanamahaofa, of Imady.
In Imady, famadihana is much more than a ceremony of turning the dead. It constitutes a moment of reunion between the living and their ancestors. When a new tomb is built, the transfer of remains to this new sepulcher is an essential step. Families also proceed with the consecration of the tomb, organized during periods dedicated to remembering ancestors. The deceased already installed in the old vault are carefully wrapped in new shrouds before being transferred to their new home, in accordance with traditional rules.
Organizing a famadihana requires several months of preparation. Families meet to plan the relational, material, customary and logistical aspects of the ceremony. Procedures vary according to families, but certain practices remain essential in Imady. Before the famadihana, the savika omby is notably organized, a zebu sacrifice whose blood is considered a blessing intended to sanctify the ceremony and honor ancestors.
Meals also occupy an important place. Families prepare large quantities of rice and meat-rich dishes to welcome their guests with dignity. Guests gather around the traditional velaran-tsihy, a vast mat on which meals are served in a spirit of sharing.
Music is an integral part of festivities. Formerly, only the traditional flute and hira gasy performances accompanied ceremonies. Today, these cultural expressions coexist with more modern entertainment, without questioning the foundations of local traditions.
Distinctive Features
While famadihana is practiced in several regions of the Highlands, notably among the Merina, Betsileo and in Vakinankaratra, Imady preserves distinctive characteristics of its own. Funeral rites differ notably in the way remains are bound or in the conduct of ceremonies, testifying to a cultural identity preserved through generations.
Beyond famadihana, several family events continue to be celebrated in respect of customs, notably house inaugurations, circumcisions, weddings and other traditional ceremonies, particularly numerous in August.
Solidarity remains one of Imady's greatest riches. It is expressed notably through the "atero ka alao" system, a true chain of mutual aid between families. When a family organizes a ceremony, all close relatives mobilize spontaneously. Some bring one or more zebus, others money, rice, gifts or their blessings. All these contributions are carefully recorded so they can be returned when it comes another family's turn to organize a similar event.
According to Dr. Daniel Rabemananjara, president of the IMianta association (Imady Miray eto Antananarivo), what particularly distinguishes the Betsileo of Imady is their deep attachment to solidarity. "Famadihana is not only a tribute to ancestors. What makes Imady's strength is solidarity, love between families and the will to preserve our values. Even those who live far away return to share this moment. It is an entire community that comes together."
"The 'atero ka alao' does not concern only famadihana."