Colors of Mamanuca Island - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The Mamanuca archipelago is part of the state of Fiji. Malolo is the largest island in the archipelago. There is a proverb "the Sun relaxes on Malolo" among Fijians. As the Mamanuca Islands were inhabited quite late, the Fijians thought that the Sun relaxing on the island at the end of the day. Of course, no one thinks so today. But the proverb and the legend remained.

English is not quite traditional in spelling and pronunciation here. But you will be able to understand what you are told or what is indicated in the menu or on the sign. The population is very diverse ethnically. In addition to the natives, people from India, China, Indonesia, Japan, and Australia live here. English is the official language here. Therefore, tourists will not have problems with communication. In addition, the indigenous people use a variety of dialects. Diasporas communicate in their own language as a rule.

There is also no unity in religious terms here. You can find adherents of almost any religion on the Mamanuca Islands. Most of the population adheres to Christianity. Hinduism is the second most popular religion. There is a small percentage of Muslims as well as followers of other religions here. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Islands of the archipelago are inhabited only partially. You can meet only birds and lonely tourists who want to test themselves in a single tour on small remote Islands. Many island tribes practiced cannibalism in the past. However, despite this past, indigenous Fijians are benevolent, open, and pleasant people. They will always be ready to help. It is not customary to refuse anything here. Therefore, if you feel that the Fijian is avoiding a direct answer, it is better to change the topic.

The locals are very restrained in public. It is not customary to loudly express emotions, shout or cheer violently on the street here. The islanders have been learning this since childhood. Guests are also encouraged to adhere to this behavior.

Families are quite traditional here. The locals treat the elderly with great respect. A man performs all the duties of maintaining a family. Women take care of the house and children. The large cohesion of small communities is a feature of the archipelago. As a rule, there are one or two villages where residents celebrate holidays and important events together, share responsibilities for child care, and even choose a life partner within their community on the island. Residents Mamanuca treat the village chief with respect. Tourists are also requested to show respect. It will be great if you prepare a small gift for the chief. It is customary to make gifts also to the owners of the house if you are invited to visit a local family. You will also receive a gift in return. Please note that you cannot refuse it. This may be perceived as an affront.

You can see how Fijians live and get to know their culture if you visit the village of Solevu on Malolo. Almost every hotel offers a tour here. Guests can watch and participate in the traditional rituals of the islanders and see traditional dances. You will be treated to local dishes and will certainly be offered to participate in the ritual of drinking Yangon. This ceremony is held as a sign of respect for the guests and for the ancestors. It is customary to start all local celebrations with it.

Dance is a very important part of the Islander culture. It has a ritual meaning. Movements have been passed down from generation to generation for many centuries. There are appropriate dances for almost any event in the life of the family and society. The male war dance is usually performed during shows intended for tourists. It is called Sibi or Meke. Women's dances associated with marriage and the birth of children, characterized by smoother movements.

It will be interesting to watch the celebration in the Hindu community. Songs and dances are also performed here. You must get to the performance of the local parish church choir. It is known throughout the region for performing religious hymns.

Many holidays are celebrated on the Islands. In addition to national dates, such as Independence Day (October 10-13) or Ratu Sukuna Day (the last Monday in May), almost all religious dates are celebrated here. New Year and Catholic Easter are celebrated on a large scale here. National holidays are public holidays throughout the country. They are celebrated on a large scale. Official events and parades are held everywhere on Independence Day.

The religious celebration is especially clearly observed in the Diasporas. For example, the Hula festival in July is a very bright annual event. The Indian community decorates homes and streets with flowers these days. Musical performances are arranged. You can participate in the ritual sprinkling of each other with bright colored powders on the streets. The Hibiscus Festival is another annual event worth visiting. It is celebrated in August. Various cultural events, concerts, and sports competitions are organized on this day. A festive feast is sure to take place in the evening. You can taste the best national dishes there.