In the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, surrounded by the towering presence of Uluru and the rugged beauty of Kata Tjuta, we explore a tale integral to Anangu culture – the story of the Mala People. This ancient narrative, rooted in Tjukurpa – the period when ancestral beings created the world – offers profound insights into the traditions and wisdom of the Anangu, the traditional custodians of this sacred land.
The Mala, or rufous hare-wallaby, people journeyed from the north, drawn by the imposing presence of Uluru. To them, this sacred rock appeared a fitting place to gather and perform imma, their ceremonial rites. With reverence and purpose, the Mala men decorated Ngaltawata, the ceremonial pole, marking the commencement of their sacred rituals.
As the imma preparations unfolded, the women played a crucial role, diligently gathering and preparing food and storing nyuma, or seed cakes, in their caves. Meanwhile, the men, in their own important role, ventured out to hunt, ensuring provisions for their community.
However, during this harmonious beginning, the tranquillity was shattered by the arrival of two Wintalka men from the west. They extended an invitation to the Mala people to join their own imma. But bound by their commitment to their ongoing ceremony, the Mala people politely declined, explaining that their rites had already begun and could not be interrupted.
Disappointed and aggravated by this rejection, the Wintalka men returned to their people, harbouring feelings of resentment. Fuelled by anger, they conjured Kurpany, a malevolent spirit in the form of a monstrous devil-dog tasked with destroying the Mala imma.
As Kurpany travelled towards the Mala people, he assumed various forms, including a mamu (a ghost), signifying his ominous intent. Luunpa, the kingfisher woman, was the first to spot him and issued warnings to the Mala. But they didn’t listen.
When Kurpany finally reached the Mala, the scene was one of chaos and tragedy. Some of the Mala men, despite their courage and strength, fell victim to his overpowering force. Faced with fear and danger, the remaining Mala people, showing their remarkable resilience, fled to South Australia.
Today, echoes of this epic struggle remain within the land. Luunpa stands watch, transformed into a formidable rock, her presence a silent lookout over the land. Kurpany’s footprints are etched into the earth, a stark reminder of the danger that the Mala people once faced. And in their caves, the spirits of the fallen men remain, a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of their ancestors.
The Anangu hold this narrative close, not just as a tale of survival but as a profound lesson in resilience and wisdom. It underscores the enduring value of their oral traditions, ensuring that the spirit of the Mala people and their journey continue to resonate through time.
Hear the Creation Stories with SEIT Tours
Join us on our SEIT Uluru Trek, where our guides will tell you a number of stories associated with prominent Tjukurpa (Creation stories) as you make your way around the base of Uluru. From the Tjukurpa of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (woma python) learnt along the Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole to this story of the Mala people heard along the Mala Walk to Kantju Gorge. This full base walk gives you the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the beautiful culture and history of Uluru.