Kuikuro

Kuikuro is an indigenous people of Brazil living in the Upper Xingu region of the Mato Grosso state. They are one of several groups who share a similar culture and language and are often referred to as the Upper Xingu peoples. Their language, also called Kuikuro, belongs to the Cariban language family.

The Kuikuro maintain a complex social and ceremonial life, marked by elaborate rituals and a sophisticated understanding of their environment. They are skilled farmers, cultivating manioc, maize, and other crops in gardens cleared from the rainforest. Fishing is also an important part of their subsistence strategy.

Traditionally, Kuikuro villages are circular, with houses built around a central plaza where ceremonies are held. Their social structure is based on kinship and reciprocal relationships. They are known for their body painting, feather ornaments, and other forms of traditional art.

The Kuikuro have faced numerous challenges, including disease, deforestation, and pressure from outside influences. They have worked to preserve their culture and language, and to protect their ancestral lands. Their rich cultural heritage and ongoing efforts to maintain their way of life make them a significant part of Brazil's indigenous population. They are increasingly active in advocating for their rights and working with other indigenous groups to protect the Amazon rainforest.