The month of October marked a special celebration for the community of Ilê Asé Ayrá Ty Osún Omoba Sangó, a house of axé that stands as much more than a religious temple. It commemorated 30 years of existence and the spiritual journey of Yalorixá Marilene de Oxum, who has dedicated herself tirelessly to preserving the traditions of Candomblé throughout her path.
Behind this symbolic milestone of 30 years lies a profound story that traces back to the spiritual origins of Mãe Marilene. Initiated at Ilê Asé Azauane Kwabò Yeye Opará by Maria da Conceição, Mãe Marilene followed a path of devotion and commitment to Oxum until she founded her own house of axé. In honor of her ancestry and in recognition of her mentor, Oxum christened her daughter’s house as Ilê Asé Ayrá Ty Osún Omoba Sangó. This was a tribute to Conceição, who never had her own space in Rio de Janeiro but played an essential role at Asé Azauane, even assuming leadership of this historic terreiro for a time.
Marilene's Journey: From Initiation to the Founding of Her Own Axé
This spiritual journey began under the guidance of Mãe Conceição, who came from Salvador and never had the opportunity to establish her own house of worship in Rio de Janeiro. However, she skillfully led Axé Azawane following the passing of its founder. With this heritage, Mãe Marilene embraced her mission and, guided by Oxum, founded her own house, continuing the legacy of her initiator.
This decision was inspired by a spiritual revelation indicating that, although Mãe Marilene is a daughter of Oxum, her house should also be consecrated to Ayrá. Thus, the name Ilê Asé Ayrá Ty Osún Omoba Sangó symbolizes the union of the paths of Oxum and Ayrá, paying tribute to the orixá who initiated this entire journey.
The Celebration: A Keen Eye on Every Detail
To mark this important celebration, the preparation of the event was meticulous and involved months of planning. The entire community actively participated to ensure that every detail aligned with the traditions of the house. Egbome Carine de Oxossi, the niece of Yalorixá Marilene, played a crucial role in planning and executing the event. She shared valuable insights into the care and dedication that went into making the celebration a success.
Art and Care Reflected in the Garments
"One of the most remarkable collaborations was with the Raio Dourado atelier, particularly through the partnership with Michelle, who crafted the garments with a unique sensitivity. The Oxum attire, in this shade of yellow, was designed to harmonize with the costa cloths used by Abians, yawos, egbomes, ekedes, and ogans. The elaborate hairstyles of the women in the terreiro also received special attention, reflecting the self-care that Oxum represents in preparing the devotees for the big day."
Egbome Carine de Oxossi
The Collective Strength of the Community
The celebration had a moment of prominence: the moment when Oxum was hailed by the ogans, filling the space with a captivating energy. The atabaques fell silent for a few moments to make way for the voices echoing devotional chants, celebrating the strength of the ancestral presence in this powerful terreiro of candomblé.
Foundation and Legacy
Ilê Asé Ayrá Ty Osún Omoba Sangó was officially founded on October 30, 2005, marking the beginning of a journey of faith and the preservation of Afro-religious traditions. However, the house carries a much older legacy that extends beyond its doors, rooted in the memories and teachings passed down by Conceição and strengthened by Mãe Marilene's dedication over the years.
The decision to celebrate the 30-year milestone now, even after surpassing this mark, is a way to honor each step of the journey and the challenges overcome. For Mãe Marilene, this celebration was a moment of reaffirmation of faith and the continuation of axé, a space where spirituality and tradition come together to build a beautiful rite of faith.
Ties of Ancestry and Companionship in Mãe Marilene's Journey
A special highlight of gratitude goes to Tia Gracinha, who was present during Mãe Marilene's initiation and embraced Oxum, becoming one of the oldest and most respected figures during Marilene's early years as a Yawo. Throughout her journey, Tia Gracinha accompanied every step of the spiritual growth of the yalorixá, becoming a reference of wisdom and ancestry. Another important pillar in Mãe Marilene's journey is Dote Carlos de Togbo, her godfather who became a true brother. Always ready to exchange ideas and offer valuable advice, Carlos plays a crucial role in sustaining and continuing the axé.
Special Thanks and Looking to the Future
The success of the celebration would not have been possible without the collaboration of many people and partners who contributed their time, talent, and dedication. Special thanks to the Raio Dourado atelier and its CEO Michelle for creating the garments that brought life and color to the event, and to all the filhos de santo, ogans, ekedes, and other members of the Axé house who continue to uphold this legacy with devotion.
Bem-te-vi no Axé is proud to be part of this documentation and to capture such meaningful moments for Candomblé. We will continue to support and preserve the stories that keep Afro-Brazilian culture alive, ensuring these traditions are passed down to future generations.
Rômulo Corleone.
Visual Artist, Photographer, and Afro-Documentary Journalist.
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