A Kachina is a spirit being in the religious beliefs of the Pueblo peoples of the American Southwest, particularly the Hopi tribe. Kachinas are often represented in the form of dolls, which are carved from wood and painted to depict various spirits, ancestors, or natural elements. These dolls serve as teaching tools for children, helping them understand the significance of the Kachina spirits in their culture.
In traditional ceremonies, Kachinas are also embodied by dancers who wear elaborate costumes and masks. These performances are meant to invoke the spirits for blessings, such as rain and fertility, essential for agriculture. The Kachina belief system reflects the deep connection between the Pueblo peoples and their environment.