GULE WAMKULU
In Malawi, close to 80% of people are Christians, and 17% are Muslim. The rest of the 3% believe in traditional beliefs. One of the groups in 3% are called Chewa. Within this group is a secret society known as Gule wamkulu, which is also the name of the dance they perform at various ceremonies. They perform at ceremonies such as funerals, weddings, and other special occasions.The Gule Wamkulu wear animal skins and dress in masks. They kick up dust while dancing to hide themselves. Only the chief who appointed them as protector of the village and only he knows their true identities.
They are known for their "animal state" that they reach by wearing animal skins. It is said that they are not to be approached while in this state, and if a person does, they might drag them to the ceremony for rituals.
In the Chewa belief, death is not natural and is usually caused by witchcraft. The whole village shows up if someone dies. Also they believe that witchcraft can only work on family members. So since most of the villagers are related, they show up to the funeral. Funerals are not just to mourn but to eat, huge social parties, drink beer, and meet people.
Original: http://www.malawiproject.org/about-malawi/history/gule-wamkulu/
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