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Kesho-mawashi

What is Kesho-Mawashi?

Kesho-mawashi is a ceremonial apron worn by sumo wrestlers during specific formal occasions, such as the ring-entering ceremony (dohyō-iri) that takes place before official matches. Unlike the standard mawashi, which is worn during actual bouts, the kesho-mawashi is highly decorative and designed to display the wrestler's status and affiliations.

Here are some key features of the kesho-mawashi:

  1. Design and Decoration: Kesho-mawashi are often elaborately decorated with intricate embroidery, featuring a variety of designs such as family crests, sponsor logos, and traditional Japanese motifs. They are typically made from silk and other high-quality materials.
  2. Symbolism: The designs on a kesho-mawashi can carry significant meaning, often reflecting the wrestler's personal history, achievements, and affiliations. They may also include symbols meant to bring good luck or protection.
  3. Use in Ceremonies: The primary use of the kesho-mawashi is during the dohyō-iri, where wrestlers from the top two divisions (Makuuchi and Jūryō) participate in a ritual that involves specific movements and poses. Yokozuna, or grand champions, have their own unique ring-entering ceremonies that are more elaborate and also involve the use of kesho-mawashi.
  4. Craftsmanship: Creating a kesho-mawashi is a specialized craft that involves skilled artisans. The process can be time-consuming and expensive, reflecting the importance and prestige associated with these garments.
  5. Sponsorship: Often, the kesho-mawashi is funded by sponsors, who may have their logos or symbols incorporated into the design. This sponsorship is a way for companies to gain visibility and associate themselves with the sport of sumo.

Overall, the kesho-mawashi is an important part of sumo tradition, adding to the visual spectacle and cultural richness of the sport.

Related Article: Sumo: Pre-fight Customs and Rituals

Personal greed and egoism are things that cause human beings to forget respect for others and to violate rules that have been established for the sake of peace and friendship.
Mas Oyama

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