Unusual Funeral Rites in Vihiga Spark Widespread Debate After Coffin Dance Video From Luanda Burial Goes Viral Online

A funeral ceremony in Vihiga County has triggered national debate after dramatic scenes unfolded moments before burial. A viral video showed youths lifting and swinging a coffin as loud secular music played. The footage quickly spread online. It left many Kenyans shocked.

The burial took place in Luanda, Vihiga County. In the video, young men carry the coffin and sway it from side to side. They move in rhythm with the music. Mourners dance around them. The procession looks more like a celebration than a traditional funeral. The group later lowers the coffin near the grave.

The deceased was identified only as Mapesa. Reports indicate he died after a mob attack. The attack followed allegations that he was a thief. His death added tension to an already emotional burial.

Moments later, the ceremony took an even more unusual turn. Two women climbed onto the coffin. They danced as music blared from speakers. Some mourners cheered loudly. Others watched in silence. A voice over a microphone urged the women to continue. “This is our son, Mapesa. Dance for him with all your might,” the voice said.

Supporters of the act said it honoured the deceased. They claimed Mapesa loved music while alive. They described the dance as a final celebration of his life. Several people shouted his name. They said the act showed love, not disrespect.

However, the video sparked mixed reactions online. Some users condemned the scenes as disrespectful to the dead. Others defended the actions. They said funeral customs vary across communities. They argued families should grieve in their own way.

As the video continued to circulate, debate intensified. The incident reopened discussion on changing burial traditions. It also showed how social media can turn local events into national conversations. For many, the burial of Mapesa now reflects deeper questions about culture, grief and respect.