In ancient times, people believed in the underworld — a realm reached after death where the soul underwent purification before returning to life.

As the rainy season approached, wise elders observed that insects like chicatanas (winged ants), beetles, and grasshoppers emerged from the earth. They believed these creatures came from the underworld and, by taking flight, opened the skies to bring rain. Such beings were seen as part of the air element’s sacred fauna.

The elders told of a legend about a pink grasshopper — the Spectacular Saltacielos — said to carry purified souls from the underworld. With a single leap, it reached the heavens, spreading rain as a symbol of hope and unity.

During the Day of the Dead, mezcal is placed on altars so its aroma can guide the spirits of loved ones back to enjoy the earth’s gifts. For this reason, the maguey is seen as a fruit of the underworld — like the Spectacular Saltacielos, it opens portals between worlds.