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The religious community in Cuba is in mourning following the passing of Aldo Durades Román at the age of 87. He was the president of the Bantu Institution of Cuba and dedicated his life to the preservation and promotion of African-origin religious traditions on the island.
The news of his passing was confirmed this Sunday by the Yoruba Cultural Association of Cuba, causing shock among his colleagues and followers.
Facebook user Víctor Rizzi recalled that besides being the President of the Bantú Institution of Cuba, Aldo was "Abakuá, Omo Oya, a Mason with great wisdom and knowledge of all science."
So far, the causes of his death have not been revealed. However, William Oraá Sánchez, Vice President of International Relations of the Bantu Institution of Cuba, stated that the wake for Durades Román took place last Friday at the Funeral Home on Calzada and K in Havana, and the burial was held at Colón Cemetery.
Durades Román was a prominent leader in the Cuban cultural sphere, renowned for his work in researching, promoting, and teaching the Bantu roots in Cuban culture.
Under his leadership, the Bantu Institution of Cuba became a key space for the study and practice of African traditions, fostering an understanding of their impact on national identity.
The members of the Bantú Institution of Cuba practice Santería, which, along with the Regla de Palo Monte, are Cuban religions of African origin. Followers, known as santeros, worship entities that embody aché, referred to as orishas or saints.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Death of Aldo Durades Román
Who was Aldo Durades Román?
Aldo Durades Román was the president of the Bantú Institution of Cuba and a prominent cultural leader on the island. He dedicated his life to the preservation and promotion of African-origin religious traditions in Cuba, also being recognized as Abakuá, Omo Oya, and Mason, with extensive knowledge in his field.
What impact did the Bantú Institution of Cuba have under the leadership of Durades Román?
Under the leadership of Aldo Durades Román, the Bantú Institution of Cuba established itself as a key space for the study and practice of African traditions. His guidance fostered an understanding of the impact these traditions have on Cuban national identity, promoting santería and the Regla de Palo Monte.
What were the community's reactions following the passing of Aldo Durades Román?
The religious and cultural community of Cuba expressed its shock and mourning following the announcement of his passing, confirmed by the Yoruba Cultural Association of Cuba. His colleagues and followers remembered his profound wisdom and his contributions to Cuban culture.
Where were the funeral services for Aldo Durades Román held?
The wake for Aldo Durades Román was held at the Funeraria de Calzada y K in Havana, and his burial took place at Colón Cemetery, according to William Oraá Sánchez, Vice President of International Relations for the Bantú Institution of Cuba.
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