In the majestic mountains of Ecuador's Andes, a unique initiative is breathing life into the ancient culture and language of the Otavalo Indigenous people. Through the captivating medium of anime, a dedicated group of young Otavalans is fostering a deep sense of pride, especially among their children. They have crafted an animated short film titled 'We're Aya', a captivating tale that follows the adventures of Aya, a mythical Otavalo warrior, and his companions. The story unfolds amidst the majestic landscapes of Imbabura, a northern Andes province renowned for its Otavalo inhabitants and their exquisite handicrafts and textiles. The film's director and producer, Tupac Amaru, underscores the film's significance as a proactive measure to preserve Otavalo customs and language. As globalization weaves its intricate web, the Otavalo community finds itself at a crossroads, choosing between isolation and cultural defense or embracing the world with resilience and cultural revival. The film's 12 Quichua-speaking characters serve as a bridge to the past, aiming to ignite a passion for heritage in Otavalo children. While previous films have explored indigenous themes, this production stands out by featuring Quichua characters, a language that holds immense cultural value. Quichua, a member of the Quechua language family, is predominantly spoken in Ecuador. The creative mind behind the film's narrative, Yarik Sisa, draws inspiration from ancestral practices that have withstood the test of time. These practices include the enchanting ritual of bestowing musical instruments with 'soul' by placing them at energetic land points the night before celebrations. The film's characters, each embodying distinct qualities, include Ayaruku, symbolizing indomitable spirit; Ayawa, representing the sublime and feminine essence; and Ayaku, a child embodying tenderness. As the story unfolds, the characters engage in a rhythmic dance, playing traditional instruments and stomping their feet, as they enter a dark cavern symbolizing globalization. Here, the spirits bestow upon them the sacred mission of becoming new seeds of their people. The narrative reaches its climax with an Indigenous grandfather imparting wisdom to his granddaughter, urging her to embrace her role as a steadfast defender of their culture. The team behind 'We're Aya' envisions a future filled with more films and even video games in Quichua, aiming to captivate audiences worldwide. Malkik Anrango, the film's creative director, expresses this ambition, highlighting their goal to create 'games made by Quichuas in a Quichua environment' and make their mark on the international video game market.
