The Jab Jab tradition, a powerful symbol of freedom and resistance, marked the dawn of this year's Notting Hill Carnival in London. Hundreds of participants donned devil horns, covered their bodies in motor oil, and paraded through the streets in a vibrant display of cultural heritage.

The Jab Jab parade is deeply rooted in the history of Grenada and serves as a poignant reminder of the end of slavery. Participants engage in this ritual to celebrate emancipation and to assert their identity and resilience.

This annual event sees participants transform themselves into 'Jabs,' figures often associated with the devil, a visual representation of overcoming oppression. The use of motor oil, while visually striking, also carries symbolic weight, connecting the participants to the earth and their ancestral struggles. The parade traditionally begins at dawn, symbolizing the dawn of a new era of freedom.

The continuation of the Jab Jab tradition at Notting Hill Carnival underscores its importance in preserving cultural memory and fostering a sense of community among the Grenadian diaspora in London. It provides a platform for younger generations to connect with their history and understand the sacrifices of those who came before.

Participants speaking to Al Jazeera highlighted the profound significance of the Jab Jab. They emphasized that the tradition is not merely a performance but a spiritual and cultural practice that honors their ancestors and celebrates liberation. The act of covering themselves in oil and donning devil horns is a way to confront and transcend the darkness of their history.

This year's observance comes at a time when cultural heritage and its preservation are increasingly recognized as vital components of identity. The Jab Jab parade at Notting Hill Carnival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom and the determination of communities to keep their traditions alive across generations and continents.

The visual spectacle of the Jab Jab is intense, with the dark, glistening oil and menacing horns creating an unforgettable image. However, beneath the striking appearance lies a deep historical narrative of struggle, survival, and ultimate triumph over adversity. It is a living history lesson, enacted annually.

As the Jab Jab parade kicks off the festivities of the Notting Hill Carnival, it sets a tone of remembrance and celebration, ensuring that the stories and the spirit of emancipation continue to resonate within one of Europe's largest street festivals.