When watching sumo, one cannot miss the strips of cloth hanging in front of a wrestler’s mawashi, known as the sagari. These are not just decoration but an essential part of the attire. This article explains why grabbing them is not considered a foul and highlights key points to watch during a match.
- What Is the Sagari?
- Basic Features of the Sagari
- Is Grabbing the Sagari a Foul?
- Differences in Sagari by Wrestler Rank
- Historical Background of the Sagari
- Comparing the Sagari with Other Sumo Equipment
- Movements of the Sagari During Matches
- Points for Foreign Spectators
- How to Enjoy Watching Sagari
- Conclusion
What Is the Sagari?
The sagari consists of several cloth strips inserted into the front of the mawashi, hanging down like tassels. The colors are usually black or white, depending on the wrestler’s rank.
They are not just decoration, but considered a part of the mawashi, and they help maintain the wrestler’s appearance in the sacred sumo ring.
Basic Features of the Sagari
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Position | Inserted at the front of the mawashi, hanging down |
| Color | Black for top-division wrestlers, white for lower divisions |
| Number | Around 10 to 20 strips |
| Material | Sturdy cotton cloth |
| Function | Indicator of mawashi placement, adds visual order |
| Rule | Considered part of the mawashi, not a foul to grab |
Is Grabbing the Sagari a Foul?
Sumo has many forbidden acts, such as pulling hair, punching with fists, or poking the eyes. However, grabbing the sagari is not a foul, because they are treated as part of the mawashi.
During close contact, wrestlers often touch the sagari unintentionally, and the match continues without interruption. Since the strips are thin, gripping them provides almost no advantage, and the true contest always comes from grabbing the mawashi itself.
Differences in Sagari by Wrestler Rank
The color and impression of the sagari differ according to the wrestler’s division. Observing these differences can help fans understand rank and formality.
| Rank | Sagari Color | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Top Division (Makuuchi) | Black | Gives a sharp and dignified look |
| Juryo & Lower Divisions | White | Clean and youthful impression |
| New Apprentices | White (fewer strips) | Simple style as required by rules |
| Yokozuna in Ring-Entering Ceremony | Sometimes attached to ceremonial apron | Strongly ritualistic in appearance |
Historical Background of the Sagari
Sagari appear in Edo-period woodblock prints, proving they have been part of a wrestler’s attire for centuries. At that time, the number of strips was fewer, and the purpose was more decorative.
Because the sumo ring is sacred, wrestlers were required to appear in a neat, dignified form. The sagari symbolized both aesthetics and discipline, and this tradition has continued into the modern era.
Comparing the Sagari with Other Sumo Equipment
Sumo includes several distinctive items, each with a unique purpose. Comparing them highlights the sagari’s role more clearly.
| Equipment | Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mawashi | Thick cloth belt wrapped around the waist | Fundamental grip for winning |
| Sagari | Thin hanging strips at the front | Aesthetic order, marker of mawashi position |
| Kesho-mawashi | Ornate embroidered apron | Used only in ring-entering ceremonies |
| Topknot (Mage) | Traditional wrestler hairstyle | Symbol of tradition and respect |
Movements of the Sagari During Matches
When matches begin, violent clashes cause the sagari to sway dramatically. This visually emphasizes the intensity of the bout and excites the audience.
At the edge of the ring, when dramatic throws or pushes occur, the sagari spread outward, further highlighting the wrestler’s size and movements. Even in small details, Japanese aesthetics are expressed in sumo.
Points for Foreign Spectators
For many foreign visitors, the sagari is one of the least understood sumo accessories. With a little explanation, spectators can appreciate its meaning and enjoy matches more deeply.
| Question | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Is it just decoration? | It is officially part of the mawashi |
| Is grabbing a foul? | No, grabbing is allowed as it is part of the mawashi |
| Why are colors different? | They indicate the wrestler’s division |
| Does it affect the match? | Practically, it has little to no effect |
How to Enjoy Watching Sagari
To fully enjoy sumo, one should look beyond wins and losses, paying attention to the finer details. Observing sagari helps deepen appreciation of the sport’s beauty and tradition.
| Viewing Point | What to Observe | How to Appreciate |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Adjusted to wrestler’s physique | Notice overall balance |
| Number | More strips give a fuller look | Compare among wrestlers |
| Movement | Sways during combat | Feel the intensity visually |
| Color | Black or white depending on division | Identify wrestler’s rank |
Conclusion
The sagari is a vital part of the mawashi, combining function and aesthetics. It is not a foul to grab, and it maintains both discipline and visual order in the sacred ring. By noting differences in color, number, and movement, fans can discover new layers of enjoyment in sumo.
Sumo is not only a contest of strength and technique but also a living tradition where beauty lies in the details. The sagari is one such detail, and noticing it can become a gateway for beginners and foreign visitors to appreciate sumo more deeply.
コメント