Beyond its postcard-perfect exterior lies a rich and fascinating culture steeped in myths and folklore. Fijian myths and folklore offer a glimpse into the beliefs, values, and practices of the indigenous Fijian people, who have inhabited the islands for thousands of years.
Dakuwaqa
One of the most prominent figures in Fijian mythology is the god Dakuwaqa. He is often depicted as a shark or half-man, half-shark, and is known as the protector of the sea. Dakuwaqa is revered by many Fijians, who believe that he can control the waves and protect fishermen from danger. According to legend, Dakuwaqa was once a human who was transformed into a shark by his father after he disobeyed him. In his new form, Dakuwaqa became the king of the sea, and his powers allowed him to control the tides and protect the ocean’s creatures.
Lomalagi
Another prominent figure in Fijian mythology is the goddess of love, Lomalagi. Lomalagi is often associated with the heavens and is believed to control the weather, particularly the rain. She is also revered for her beauty, and many Fijian love stories involve Lomalagi as a central character. According to one popular myth, Lomalagi fell in love with a mortal man named Tawake, but their love was forbidden by her father. Despite this, Tawake and Lomalagi continued to see each other in secret until her father discovered their affair. In punishment, Lomalagi was banished to live in the sky, while Tawake was left to live on Earth.
Knox:
Knox is a Fijian rapper and hip-hop artist who has gained international recognition for his unique style and powerful lyrics. He is known for incorporating Fijian language and culture into his music, which has helped to promote Fijian culture on a global scale. Knox has released several albums, including “The Fijian Flag” and “The Fiji Hustle,” and has won numerous awards for his music, including the Pacific Music Awards’ Best Hip Hop Artist Award.
Mereani Masani:
Mereani Masani is a Fijian gospel singer who has gained widespread recognition for her powerful voice and inspirational lyrics. She is known for her unique blend of Fijian gospel and contemporary Christian music, which has earned her a large following in Fiji and the Pacific region. Masani has released several albums, including “Serevi” and “Adi Mere,” and has won numerous awards for her music, including the Fiji Performing Rights Association’s Song of the Year Award.
Laisa Vulakoro:
Laisa Vulakoro is a Fijian singer who has become a household name in Fiji and the Pacific region. She is known for her powerful voice and emotional ballads, which have earned her the nickname “The Queen of Love Songs.” Vulakoro has released several albums, including “Laisa Vulakoro” and “Sereima,” and has won numerous awards for her music, including the Fiji Performing Rights Association’s Songwriter of the Year Award.
Fiji:
Born in Fiji and raised in Hawaii, Fiji (real name George Veikoso) is a popular Fijian-American reggae artist. He is known for his smooth voice and soulful lyrics, which have earned him a loyal following around the world. Fiji has released several albums, including “Evolution” and “Born and Raised II,” and has won numerous awards for his music, including the Pacific Music Awards’ Best Male Artist Award
Fijian mythology also features many supernatural creatures, such as the yaukete. The yaukete is a creature that is said to inhabit the rainforests of Fiji, and is known for its incredible speed and agility. According to legend, the yaukete is often invisible to the human eye, and is believed to be a shape-shifter, able to transform into a variety of different animals. In some stories, the yaukete is said to be a mischievous creature, playing tricks on unsuspecting humans who venture into the forest.
Fijian folklore also includes many traditional customs and practices that have been passed down through the generations. One such practice is the Fijian firewalking ceremony, known as vilavilairevo. During the ceremony, participants walk across hot coals without being burned, in a display of spiritual and physical strength. The ceremony is believed to have originated from a myth involving a Fijian chief who was saved from a burning house by the god of fire.
In addition to these myths and practices, Fijian culture is also known for its elaborate storytelling and oral traditions. Many Fijian myths and folklore have been passed down through generations of storytellers, who have shared them with their communities through song, dance, and spoken word.
Overall, Fijian myths and folklore offer a unique and fascinating glimpse into the beliefs, values, and practices of the indigenous Fijian people. Through these stories, we can learn about the importance of the sea, the power of love, the wonders of the natural world, and the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
