Commoditised the Sacred: Gnawa from Rituals and Traditions to Stardom
Meryem Madili
Különleges Bánásmód - Interdiszciplináris folyóirat April 16, 2026 DOI: 10.18458/kb.2026.si.101 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Inscribed figure Blues Ethnic group Cultural heritage Phenomenon Identity music Aesthetics Anthropology Ethnology |
| Key points | Argues that Gnawa has preserved its traditions and healing rituals despite commodification and global fame. |
Abstract
Influenced remarkable iconic figures in the music scene, their echo reached the farthest corners of the world, attracted souls and spirits to join its magic. Led Zeppelin, Bob Marley, Jimmy Hendrix and many other artists from Jazz, blues and rock made a fusion music with their special music and rhythms. In Morocco, the community of Gnawa is not just an ethnic group but rather a significant cultural patrimony of the country that has been inscribed by the UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage due to its authenticity and special rituals. Despite the huge fame, the commoditisation factors and the tourism, Gnawa preserved its traditions and rituals for the healing purposes, which keep this community sacred and authentic. Gnawa became a cultural phenomenon and movement that influenced many people from all over the world.