- 2/5 of the population practice the indigenous religion, which is based upon ancestors beliefs and practices. This is the equivalent of Aboriginal spirituality in Canada.
- They believe in the existence of a supreme being known as Zanahary.
- Vazimba were originally viewed as the first inhabitants of Madagascar. They held god-like status because of their spiritual powers and unexplainable existence.
- Now, the term Vazimba refers to the ghosts of people who were unfortunate. These spirits are viewed as dangerous and angry because they have been cut off from proper relations with their descendants.
- Descendants will turn into Vazimba if the family does not properly care for the family tomb and they stop conducting Famadihana every 7 years.
- Almost half of the population now practices some form of Christianity and 1/5 are Roman Catholic.
- The conversion to Christianity and other religions has not eliminated the traditional practices regarding death.
- Famadihana is practiced regardless of religion.