Many people inquire, “What are the red and white tassels we see on all the masked characters of Bulgaria?”
Baba Marta means “Grandma March.” It is the name of a Bulgarian mythical figure who brings with her the end of the cold winter and the beginning of the spring. Her holiday of the same name is celebrated in Bulgaria on March 1 with the exchange and wearing of martenitsi.
Martenitsi are red and white colored bands or tassels that symbolize health and happiness, a lucky charm against evil spirits. They are given away to friends and family and are worn around your wrist or on your outfit.
The white color represents man. Red represents the woman and health: it is a sign of blood, conception and birth. In ancient times women’s wedding dresses were red.
People wear martenitsa for a certain period, the end of which usually is connected with the first signs of spring birds like storks or swallows. When we were given martenitsa from some of the villagers, we were told when we see the first birds of spring, to take our bracelets off and tie them to a nearby tree.
Since these Surati, along with the Kukeri, Chaushi, Survakari and other protectors are a ritual spectacle of springtime prosperity, it makes all the sense that they are decorated with the love of “Grandma March.”
