Bolivia’s vibrant festival reflects growing economic, political unrest

Bolivia’s religious festival has long been a vibrant celebration of culture and faith, offering a brief escape from the country’s political turmoil. But this year, the event in La Paz took on a more somber tone, reflecting the nation’s escalating economic and political challenges.

The largest Andean religious festival, the “Day of the Great Power” honors a 17th-century painting of Jesus Christ, known as El Señor del Gran Poder (The Lord of the Great Power), depicted with Indigenous Andean features, Caliber.Az reports, citing AP.

Traditionally marked by joyous folk dances and elaborate costumes, this year’s celebration began with a moment of silence for victims of recent violent clashes between police and protesters. Six people, including four officers and two civilians, died in the unrest that followed the disqualification of former President Evo Morales from Bolivia’s upcoming presidential election.

Despite calls to postpone the festival due to the national “pain,” organizers pressed on, highlighting the event’s expected $68 million economic boost amid Bolivia’s worst downturn in decades. However, signs of hardship were visible: many dancers scaled back on lavish costumes and jewelry, with nearly half of some groups unable to participate.

“The price of my costume went up by 60%,” said dancer Jorge Rodríguez. “Many haven’t been able to dance.”

Edgar Apaza, a wealthy La Paz merchant traditionally tasked with funding much of the festival’s grandeur, said the economic crisis has tightened his budget. Inflation has soared to 9.81 per cent this year, fueling public discontent and protests against President Luis Arce’s government.

Embroiderer Plácida Quispe lamented, “There is no business. People want to celebrate, but they cannot afford to pay the price.”

Father Saul Mamani, who led the ceremony, noted that devotees prayed not only for spiritual salvation but also “for economic recovery, as well as for peace and unity among Bolivians in this time.” This year’s Gran Poder celebration thus stands as both a cultural beacon and a reflection of Bolivia’s urgent struggles.

By Naila Huseynova