The religious community in Cuba mourns the passing of Aldo Durades Román, the esteemed president of the Bantu Institution of Cuba, who dedicated his 87 years to safeguarding and promoting African-origin religious traditions on the island. The news of his death was confirmed this Sunday by the Cultural Association Yoruba of Cuba, triggering grief among his peers and followers.
Facebook user Víctor Rizzi remembered Durades Román not only as the President of the Bantu Institution of Cuba but also as an "Abakuá, Omo Oya, and a Mason with profound wisdom and knowledge of all sciences." As of now, the specific cause of his death remains undisclosed. However, William Oraá Sánchez, Vice President of International Relations at the Bantu Institution of Cuba, mentioned that his wake took place last Friday at the Calzada and K Funeral Home in Havana, with the funeral held at the Colón Cemetery.
Durades Román was a prominent figure in the Cuban cultural landscape, renowned for his contributions to the research, dissemination, and teaching of Bantu roots within Cuban culture. Under his leadership, the Bantu Institution of Cuba became a pivotal center for the study and practice of African traditions, fostering an understanding of their influence on national identity.
Members of the Bantu Institution of Cuba are devoted to the practice of Santería, which, along with the Rule of Palo Monte, represents Cuban religions of African origin. Followers, or santeros, worship entities known as orishas or saints, who are believed to carry spiritual energy, or aché.
Understanding the Legacy of Aldo Durades Román in Cuba
What role did Aldo Durades Román play in Cuban culture?
Aldo Durades Román was a pivotal figure in preserving and promoting African-origin religious traditions in Cuba, leading the Bantu Institution to become a central hub for these cultural practices.
What are the religious practices associated with the Bantu Institution of Cuba?
The Bantu Institution of Cuba is associated with the practice of Santería and the Rule of Palo Monte, both religions of African origin, where followers worship orishas or saints believed to carry spiritual energy.