Căluș Ritual includes a series of dances, dramatic sketches, songs and dances. Probably derived from ancient practices of purification and fertility, the ritual uses the symbol of the horse, which in ancient times was worshiped as the embodiment of the sun. According to tradition, groups of Căluş dancers (calușari), believed to be endowed with magical powers, would go from house to house, promising the villagers health and prosperity.
Specific to the Oltenia area, the Caluș ritual dance takes place around the celebration of Pentecost. The Căluş dancers are initiated and led by a foreman (vătaf), connoisseur of enchantments with a magical role (knowledge inherited from his predecessor), who shares his authority with the masked character, called the “mute”. The group members wear specific costumes, colourful hats, embroidered shirts, ribbons crossed over the chest, pants decorated with small bells and use tools such as a flag, wooden sticks and plants (garlic, wormwood, basil), salt, incense and water.
