What is the history of Dinki Mini?

The Dinki Mini has its roots in the Congo region of Africa, and it comes from the Congolese word, ‘ndingi’, which is a song of lamentation played at funerals or during the periods leading up to them. Though associated with death, Dinki Mini rituals were celebratory occasions of merriment and joy.

Where is Dinki Mini from?

Jamaica
Dinki Mini is a dance and funerary rite from Jamaica. It is mostly performed in the parishes of Saint Andrew, Saint Mary and Saint Ann.

Where is Dinki Mini mainly Practised?

St. Andrew
Dinki mini is mainly practised in St. Andrew, St. Mary and St. Ann.

What instruments are used in Dinki Mini?

Instruments associated with Dinki Mini are shakas, katta sticks, condensed milk tins, grater, the tamboo (cylindrical shaped drum) and the benta. The benta is an accident stringed instrument – a fret board made of bamboo and a gourd resonator.

Why is dinki mini done?

Dinki-mini It is usually performed after the death of a person until the ninth night. These ‘Nine-Night’ sessions are lively and are held usually to cheer up the bereaved. During the performance the male dancer bends one leg at the knee and makes high leaps on the other foot.

What is the most popular dance in Jamaica?

Kumina
The single most popular and traditional dance is the “Kumina,” which originated in West Africa. This style of dance is predominantly found in the parishes of St. Thomas and St. Mary and is otherwise known as “Kalunga” or “Kaduunga.”

What is dinki mini used for?

Dinki mini is performed on the second to the eighth night of the traditional ninth night observances. These sessions are primarily lively and celebratory in nature and are geared to cheering the bereaved. Dancing in couples and sing lively “mento” type of music occur for the first few nights.

How is the Dinki Mini dance done?

Dinki-mini These ‘Nine-Night’ sessions are lively and are held usually to cheer up the bereaved. During the performance the male dancer bends one leg at the knee and makes high leaps on the other foot. Both male and females dance together with very suggestive pelvic movements.

What is dance in Jamaica?

Daggering is a form of dance originating from Jamaica. The dance incorporates the male dancer ramming his crotch area into the female dancer’s buttocks, and other forms of frantic movement. Daggering is not a traditional dance; it is of recent origin, associated with the 2006 wave of dancehall music.

What type of dance is in Jamaica?

Bruckins, burru, dinki-minni, ettu, gerreh, gumbay, jonkunnu, kumina, maypole, myal, quadrille, tambu and zella. Dance is such a wonderful artistic expression, influenced by history and culture. Jamaica has a rich heritage of traditional dances, but today many of them are hardly known.

What does the word ndingi mean in a dinki mini ceremony?

Dinky-mini is a group dance and song ritual held to cheer the family of a dead person. Dinki Mini originates from the Congolese word ‘ndingi’ which means lamentation or funeral song.

What time of year is Bruckins done?

Dinki Mini is done on the Eastern end of the island in the parish of St. Mary. It is usually performed after the death of a person until the ninth night. These ‘Nine-Night’ sessions are lively and are held usually to cheer up the bereaved.

What kind of dance is Dinki Mini in Jamaica?

Dinki Mini (from Congolese “ndingi,” and called Gerreh in some parts of Jamaica) is performed over the course of a ritual wake, along with the Kumina. The dance has the same purpose – to cheer the mourners and remind them of life.

Where does the song Dinki Mini come from?

Dinki Mini originates from the Congolese word ‘ndingi’ which means lamentation or funeral song. Dinkies are celebratory occasions. Although associated with death, the music is lively, joyous, and exciting, intending to cheer the family and friends of the dear person. Dinki Mini was practised openly throughout slavery but is now done mainly

Is the Dinki Mini the same as the Kumina mini?

This folk dance form is rarely heard of but is similar in form and structure to the Dinki Mini as it forms part of the death observances and rituals in Portland. The difference is in the main instruments which is a pair of Kumina drums.

Where can I find Dinki Mini in the UK?

Dinki Mini was practised openly throughout slavery but is now done mainly during our annual Festival celebration. However, it is still performed in the parishes of St. Mary, St Ann, St Andrew and Portland, while Gerreh is found in the parishes of Hanover, Westmoreland and St. James.