Mana Killa

At sunrise, many communities gather, forming a long line along the river's edge. Everyone, from the youngest child to the eldest elder, steps forward to dip their hands into the waters and splash themselves over their backs; at which point they are believed to have aged by one year.   Afterwards, a feast is held where everyone shares food in common. Chicha, quinoa, maize cakes and roasted llama or alpaca are the most expected, but others still can be made specially available like chancaca and cuya.   At nightfall; older folks, who have grown wise with age, gather the children and recount the stories of the past; emphasizing the lessons learned. There, every individual is encouraged to commit to one personal vow for the coming year - a vow to improve the land, help a neighbour or protect the home.

Offerings

The festival includes offerings to Pachamama (the Earth goddess) and Inti (the Sun god) to thank them for their protection and blessings during the past year and asking for continued guidance. Individual communities offer golden corn kernels, tobacco leaves and floral wreaths made with cotton and flowers from the highland slopes to various sacred river shrines.   This part of the tradition, however, is considered controversial by some because making an offering to to any deity other than the river is perceived as artificial interference by the Celestial Bureaucracy.

Cultural cooptation is part of Tawantinsuyu's integration strategy.

— Kuba Sañu Kamayuq on his depreciating influence

People on the River

Most of the small riverine communities that live along the Mountain River are led by soncoyocs; retaining their original purpose. For those large cities, a camayoc local appointed by Ca-Chisneu, takes on that role.