The story
Moraingy Festival in Mahajanga/Nosy Be
Moraingy is a bare-fisted striking martial art, often described as Malagasy boxing, practiced by the Sakalava since the 15th century as both training for war and a rite of passage into adulthood. Weekend competitions in Mahajanga, especially during June and July, draw large crowds and are accompanied by salegy music that builds a trance-like communal atmosphere; all strikes are allowed except to the eyes, throat and groin.
Moraingy is a bare-fisted striking martial art associated with the Sakalava people of Madagascar's west coast, with roots tracing back to the 15th century.