In the mountainous homeland of Indonesia’s Torajas, a family is preparing to end its mourning. One year and two months after the death of Elisabeth Minanga, her twelve children have begun the preparations for the funeral. Ever since 15 May 2015, the 87-year-old woman’s body has remained inside the family home. Right up to the moment of burial, the Torajas regard the deceased as simply ill. The body is mummified and resides in the house. Although it was converted to Christianity a century ago, this south-central hinterland of Sulawesi island has held on to its animist beliefs. Funeral ceremonies lie at the heart of Toraja culture. They are a way of affirming social status. And they are so opulent that it often takes several years of saving for families to scrape together the money needed. The animal sacrifices, the buffalo fights and the rituals in honour of the deceased are joyous occasions. At Toraja funerals, brotherhood, bliss and happiness hold sway.
