During Famadihana, how frequently do families typically dig up and celebrate the bodies of their deceased loved ones?

Famadihana, commonly referred to as the "turning of the bones," is a traditional burial practice observed in Madagascar, especially among the Malagasy people. This ritual involves exhuming the remains of ancestors from their tombs, rewrapping them in fresh shrouds, and celebrating their lives. Families typically dig up and celebrate the bodies of their deceased loved ones every 2-7 years to honor the dead and strengthen familial bonds. This timeframe allows families to maintain a spiritual connection with their ancestors and is seen as a way to ensure the spiritual well-being of both the deceased and the living.

The practice emphasizes the importance of ancestor worship in Malagasy culture, showcasing the belief that the dead continue to play a significant role in the lives of their descendants. The celebrations can include music, dancing, and feasting, as families share stories and memories, thus keeping the legacy of their ancestors alive within the family narrative.