Google is marking Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, with a special hand-crafted paper automata Doodle for 2023. This Mexican holiday, observed from November 1st to November 2nd, is a deeply rooted tradition where families pay homage to their departed loved ones.

During this period, it is believed that the boundary between the spirit realm and the living world fades away, permitting the souls of the deceased to reconnect with their families.

Día de los Muertos has ancient origins dating back over 3,000 years to pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations like the Aztec, Mayan, and Nahua.

It was thought that after death, an individual had to overcome nine challenges to reach Mictlán, their final resting place. Families would set up altares, which are essentially offerings consisting of food, water, tools, and symbolic items. These offerings were meant to aid the departed on their journey in the afterlife.

To mark this occasion, many Mexicans adorn their faces with calaveras, or skulls. Women don vibrant dresses or blouses along with handmade flower crowns, while men opt for suits and hats.

Offering

A crucial aspect of “Dia de los Muertos” is the creation of altars, or “ofrendas,” to honor the deceased. These altars typically include a variety of elements, each with its own symbolic meaning.

Families assemble ofrendas or altares, including photographs and personal mementos of their departed relatives, on altars adorned with marigolds. These brilliant orange flowers line the path back to the world of the living, attracting souls with their aroma and vividness. Throughout the country, feasts featuring tamales, pan de muerto (bread of the dead), calaveras de azúcar (sugar skulls), and other Mexican delicacies are enjoyed.

Día de los Muertos is a vibrant and festive occasion dedicated to commemorating and celebrating those who have departed this world. It represents an intimate tribute to the deceased and serves as a precious time for families to reunite with their loved ones. Google’s homage through its Doodle reflects the cultural richness and significance of this tradition, ensuring that the world can join in the celebration of Day of the Dead in 2023.

Coco Movie

The animated film “Coco,” produced by Disney and Pixar, brought “Dia de los Muertos” to a global audience. The movie beautifully captures the spirit and traditions of the holiday while telling a heartwarming story about family and remembrance.

READ: Day of the Dead: Why are marigolds used for Dia de los Muertos?

How is “Dia de los Muertos” different from Halloween?

While Halloween and “Dia de los Muertos” share similarities in their themes of death and the supernatural, they are distinct holidays. Halloween is often associated with costumes and the fear of the dead, whereas “Dia de los Muertos” is a celebration of the lives of the deceased, filled with vibrant colors, music, and offerings.

READ: Dia de los Muertos: What day is Day of the Dead for Dogs?

Dia de los Muertos flower name in spanish

The vibrant orange marigold flower used in “Dia de los Muertos” altars is called “cempasúchil” in Spanish. It is often referred to as the flower of the dead and plays a vital role in guiding the spirits of the departed with its color and aroma.

Dia de los Muertos is a rich and meaningful tradition that blends indigenous customs with Catholicism to create a unique celebration of life and death. It’s a time when families come together to remember their loved ones and create colorful altars filled with offerings and symbolism. Whether you are participating in “Dia de los Muertos” or simply want to learn more about this fascinating tradition, understanding these key facts will deepen your appreciation for this vibrant Mexican holiday.