The Keal is an annual ceremony in June or July fixed by the Komoro
(traditional Leader). Men feed on blood and milk for 4 to 6 months.
On this day cattle are killed with a stone and elders see the
abdominal fat to forecast the coming year, if the forecast is not
good other cattle have to be killed till it becomes good. If it is
good the Komoro has to smear the blood with something called Aton
(which is made from Ivory). Every participant of this fatness show
wants to be a winner of the year, and they will be well kept and
well fed by their parents. If one of to win the exhibition, he and
his family will be considered as a rich family; rich in cattle.
Every step of feeding, and the process is known as Lowa Dongagn. At
this time of Pongnar (fatness show) every member of the ceremony
performs traditional music called Hie-Ababa. These fat men have to
pass in front of the Komoro and elders to show how fat they are. The
fathers of the very fat men are proud of their sons. This is
followed by a feast and youngsters and girls perform a very special
dance called Haret.
The significance of this ceremony is to strengthen the unity and
social relation within the society. The winner of this fatness show
will be considered as a hero of the year and he becomes famous and a
respected person because it shows his wealth. They consider the time
or season as the beginning of the New Year calendar.
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