Observing and Preserving iTaukei Culture

The traditional ceremony of welcome held at Veivatuloa Village, Namosi on Sunday serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and observing iTaukei culture, tradition and identity.

The solemn event showcased the rich heritage of the iTaukei people and highlighted the significance of cultural preservation in defining our identity and pride as a nation.

The display of respect and obedience towards the paramount chief, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, by his subjects was a historic moment that underlined the role of tradition and culture in maintaining the way iTaukei live.

The Namosi celebration, not only honoured the rightful heir of the vanua o Nabukebuke, but also showed the unique aspects of the iTaukei cultural heritage.

He was imprisoned for 20 months and to herald his return, Namosi planned for his traditional welcome.

A special 'lali' (iTaukei drum) was carved in days to signal his arrival and timed his steps as he walked towards the chiefly shed.

There was no pet in sight, no children running around, heads were bowed as he walked past. There was silence. The only disturbance was the rustling of leaves from the easterlies.

The silence was guarded by traditional warriors called the 'Bati'.

They are the protectors of the chief and the vanua. The 'Bati Leka' guarded the chief from close prox­imity and the 'Bati Balavu' watch the village borders. They were armed with war clubs and spears this masthead learned had been kept since the tribal era.

A Government minister was among those repri­manded by the warriors when they disobeyed proto­col on Sunday.

In the past, they would have been clubbed to death on the spot because they disrespected the chief.

As our leaders convene in Parliament this week, they should take heed of the lessons from Namosi and embrace the values of respect, obedience, and family that are deeply ingrained in iTaukei culture.

By promoting cultural preservation and traditional practices, we can instill these values in our youth and help address societal issues such as crime and sub­stance abuse.

It is essential for parents, elders, chiefs, and author­ities to work together in teaching and upholding the traditions of our forefathers.

Just as the Japanese maintain their cultural identi­ty with pride, we too must embrace our heritage and pass it on to future generations.

In a world where cultural diversity is celebrated, Fi­jians must continue to safeguard and promote their unique traditions.

By following the example set by Namosi, we can en­sure that our cultural heritage remains a source of strength and unity for our nation.

Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj