Make it quick..
Firstly, women all around the world have had a tough time throughout history. However, a side of the story often unknown to others is the story of the Bolivian Cholita’s.
So What is a Cholita?
Cholita is this name for the indigenous women of Bolivia. These women are easily distinguishable from their long puffy skirts and bowler hats. Unfortunately, they have suffered decades of racism and abuse. Hence, Bolivia is a country where only until recent decades, Cholita's could be refused from restaurants, shops, buses etc.
In addition to this, they would also never have been seen in a job outside of being a servant for the middle classes.
Following this, in 2005, Bolivia voted in its first ever indigenous president. As a result, this has had a huge impact on the lives of indigenous people. Thus, now they can be seen working in banks or schools. Tinie Tempah might be driving past the bus he used to run for. Similarly, these women can now drive the bus they used to not be able to step foot on!
Undoubtedly, the rise of Cholita’s has uncovered an empowering but hilarious movement. Subsequently, the bowler hats are now tossed aside and the puffy dresses are thrown over their heads. Why is this happening? Namely, Cholita wrestling! Furthermore, Cholita women can even be seen throwing another over their shoulder. Before they also start on the referee!
In true WWE style, these women will climb up the ropes and fly across the ring, pigtails in tow. In addition, when their arms aren’t enough, they will grab a box to throw! As well as taunting the audience with insatiable banter.
What the heck does this hellish past have to do with wrestling, I hear you ask?
Well, this act shows strength, humour and creativity. Thus it is a way that these women feel can present and prove their worth in a “mans world” and we can see why. For instance, no one is looking down on the Cholita’s in this room, men and women alike. Additionally, there is no denying that they have created something with very high entertainment levels!
If you don’t enjoy a laugh, this isn’t for you. However, if you want a hilariously unique experience, this is an absolute must whilst in La Paz!
How to Get There
Firstly, there is the option to buy this experience from most tour companies in La Paz. Alternatively, you can make your own way there. To do this, take a minibus with the destination as CAJA from San Francisco church to El Alto’s Multifunctional Center (Multifuncional de la Ceja de El Alto) and hop off when you see the bridge.
It should be noted that the bus costs around Bs 2 and the entrance fee should be around Bs 50. Moreover, it’s not the most obvious building to spot. However, if you save a picture of Cholita wrestling on your phone, it is a bustling area with plenty of people to point you in the right direction.
Held every Sunday and usually on a Thursday too.
Want to know more things to do in La Paz, other than Cholita wrestling?
Check out our full guide here.
https://waterfallmagazine.com
I am not sure where you’re getting your info, but great topic.
I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more.
Thanks for fantastic information I was looking for this information for
my mission.