thumb|right|Tinku dancers dancing and performing the dance at the [[Carnaval de Oruro|Oruro carnival, in Bolivia]]
Tinku is a Bolivian Quechua tradition from Norte Potosí which began as a form of ritualistic combat. In the Quechua language, it means "meeting-encounter". During this ritual, men and women from different communities will meet and begin the festivities by dancing. The women will then form circles and begin chanting while the men proceed to fight each other; eventually the women will join in the fighting as well. Large tinkus are held in Potosí during the first few weeks of May.
Pututu trumpets were used by the people in order to call for a Tinku encounter, as well as to assemble the peasants when the hacendado required of their presence.
Tinku combat
History
The Bolivian tradition began with the indigenous belief in Pachamama, or Mother Nature. The combat is in praise of Pachamama, and any blood shed throughout the fighting is considered a sacrifice, in hopes of a fruitful harvest and fertility. Because of the violent nature of the tradition there have been fatalities, but each death is considered a sacrifice which brings forth life, and a donation to the land that fertilizes it. The brawls are also considered a mean of release of frustration and anger between the separate communities. Tinkus usually last two to three days. Their pants are usually simple black or white with traditional embroidering near their feet. Often the men wear wide thick belts tied around their waist and stomach for more protection.