Ritual of Mami Wata

This is a very simple Vaudou ritual to summon the water spirits, known as Mami Wata in West Africa, where the worship of these spiritual entities is widespread. Mami Wata spirits are a large group of female entities of aquatic origin, which is why they are generally described as women with fish tails, similar to Western mermaids.

In fact, Mami Wata and Western mermaids are exactly the same group of entities, given different names depending on geographic location and culture. Likewise, the rituals used to summon them vary, depending on local religions and beliefs. But not only do the rituals and names vary depending on geographic location, but so do the physical appearance of these spiritual entities.

For example, in Hindu tradition, where they are known as Jal Pari (water fairies), they appear with an appearance similar to Indian maidens. In China, they are known as Shui Xian (water immortals), and their features are generally Chinese. In West Africa, where their name is Mami Wata, their appearance is usually that of a young African girl, while in the West, where they have various names such as Ondines, Nereids, or simply mermaids, they more closely resemble Western girls.