Colors of Vanua Levu Island - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Vanua Levu is the second largest island in Fiji. Despite its size, it has only recently become a tourist destination. Therefore, there is not a particularly developed service, there are no major events, except for national holidays. But the island is a place where the traditional way of life of the population is best preserved. Fijians love and widely celebrate national holidays, but there are no festivals on Vanua Levu, so you can only watch the events associated with the annual national and religious holidays.

The official language of the population is English, so you will not have any problems with communication. However, people in local remote villages have a special dialect. There are diverse religious preferences on the island – from pagan tribal cults to various forms of Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Such a spread also indicates the ethnic difference of the population. Vanua Levu is home to almost a third of the country's population. Today, the people of Fiji are considered to be one of the most welcoming and friendly nations, but in the recent past, cannibalism was popular in many tribes.

It is not customary here to show feelings in public, talk loudly or shout. Aborigines will never say «no» to you directly, they will try to avoid the answer. If you notice that, a local resident translates the topic in response to your request and hesitates - step back and do not instruct on anything. Loyalty and a calm attitude towards others is another characteristic of Fijians. You will notice a clear division of gender roles on the island: the man provides for the family, and the woman is busy with household chores and childcare, and women's work is treated with great respect here. Older members of the family and community are particularly respected. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The peculiarity of the region is that, despite the large percentage of Indians, mixed marriages among the local population are not accepted and are not welcome here. Clothing is quite simple on the island. Both men and women wear sulu skirts. Women tie the skirt differently depending on the situation. You can see Indian women in saree dresses or Fijians in traditional long muumuus in the villages.

There is reverent respect for the leader in the local villages. This is especially noticeable when performing the ritual of kava drinking. This ceremony is always held before the beginning of any celebration in the community. Sitting around tanoa (a special large wooden bowl), locals demonstrate unity with the ancestors. The first sip is made by the leader, then the cup is passed to the guest, and then the rest of the participants try the drink in a circle. Only then the actual celebration begins with a plentiful table and entertainment.

Respect and reverence for the leader should be shown to tourists. You should make a gift for him when visiting a village. It could be something inexpensive, like cigarettes or root of kava. Tourists are treated as honourable guests here, so when visiting a village or a local resident's house, you can also get a small gift, and you can not refuse – it's an insult for locals. It is not customary to lock the doors here. In traditional houses, there is a custom of sitting on the floor around a mat-table. Usually, the meal does not consist of a variety of dishes, only the main dish and garnish are served here.

Traditional dances are performed on all of the local holidays. Movements and motives are transmitted through many generations and have their own specific meaning. Each event like a birth, a wedding, a war or a funeral corresponds to its ritual dance. There are female and male dances. Men usually more expressive, sometimes they carry weapons or other attributes. Women are more gentle here. For example, Seasea is a love dance, but there are quite militant performances such as a dance which expresses an insult to the enemy.

Various tricks with fire are often performed on festive occasions. You can see dancing with torches, sometimes such shows are held on the territory of hotels. Fire is also associated with many Fijian rituals dating back to the days of tribal warriors and cannibalism. One of the most significant – jump in the centre – Vila Vila i Revo. This is a kind of rite of passage when participants walk on white-hot coals.

There are very colourful religious Hindu holiday Rama’s birthday and Holi festival of colours. They are celebrated everywhere, musical performances, national dances, songs, and festive processions are held on the island. Of course, traditionally the participants of the festival sprinkle each other with powder of different colours. Holidays held by the island community of Indians are always bright and original. In October, you can see the holiday of Devali-the festival of lights. The event is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi and accompanied by fireworks and all kinds of musical events.