A Maasai warrior displays his beaded headdress with ostrich feathers, called enkuraru. This may be worn by warriors who have not killed a lion. Originally, it was worn during raids and wars to give psychological advantage by its added height, but now it is used only for major ceremonies and dances.
Most Maasai men and women shave their head during rites of passage such as marriage and circumcision. Maasai warriors are the only ones allowed to let their hair grow, and usually wear it in thin braids.
Among all villages we visited, the social aspects of the gender division were the most obvious. During our visits warriors men were accompanying us in a distinct group, while women sang for us in another distinct group. Goat roasting and bull bleeding ceremonies were held by warriors only, women were not allowed. Maasai women eat separately from men.
