Kaluda or wooden laddle is not just a cooking utensil for the Maguindanaons. It has many uses. Like the fish trap (see previous blog), kaluda should be one of the items first to be brought to a new house or a new place before moving in for good luck.
Kaluda is also used in exorcism rituals. The tip of the handle of the kaluda is placed between the toes to “get hold of the bad spirit.”
Kaluda is also used if one has a sore eyes or swollen eyes (due to heavy crying or oversleeping), the head is set on fire for a few seconds and if already warm, it is rubbed in the eyelids.
I will write more about other uses of kaluda some other time. Ciao for now!
MAGUINDANAO PRIDE 