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The Fijian People

Warriors of the Pacific - Keepers of Kava - Masters of Meke Dance

Who Are the Fijians?

Fijians (iTaukei) are the indigenous Melanesian people of the Fiji archipelago. They are renowned for their warrior traditions, vibrant cultural practices including the kava ceremony and meke (traditional dance), and strong communal village life. Despite colonial history and modern challenges, Fijians maintain proud cultural identity centered on tradition, Christianity, and connection to land.

~475KIn Fiji
FijianLanguage
330+Islands
KavaCeremonial Center
Historical Transformation: Fiji was historically known for fierce warriors and was one of the last Pacific regions practicing cannibalism - the last known case was in the 1860s! Today, Fijians are famous instead for their warmth and hospitality.

Culture & Traditions

Kava Ceremony

The kava ceremony (yaqona) is the heart of Fijian social and ceremonial life. Formal ceremonies follow strict protocols with the tanoa (kava bowl) and specific clapping patterns. Kava marks welcomes, farewells, apologies, celebrations, and important decisions.

Meke Dance

Meke is traditional Fijian dance-drama combining choreographed movements, chants, and drumming. Different types tell stories of history, legend, and daily life, preserving oral traditions through vibrant performances.

Warrior Heritage

Historically, Fijians were formidable warriors with elaborate war dances. Rugby has become a modern outlet for warrior spirit, with Fiji's national team bringing pride and unity to the nation.

Image Gallery

Fijian kava ceremony
Traditional Fijian kava (yaqona) ceremony with tanoa bowl
Fijian meke dance
Fijian meke dance combining movement, song, and storytelling
Fijian kava ceremony
Ceremonial kava preparation with traditional protocols
Fijian meke dance
Traditional meke performers preserving cultural heritage
Fijian kava ceremony
Community gathering for traditional kava ceremony
Fijian meke dance
Vibrant meke dance telling stories through movement

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Academic References & Further Reading

1.Ravuvu, A. (1983). Vaka I Taukei: The Fijian Way of Life. Institute of Pacific Studies.
2.Scarr, D. (1984). Fiji: A Short History. Allen & Unwin.
3.Capell, A., & Lester, R. H. (1941). Kinship in Fiji. Oceania, 11(3), 171-200.
4.France, P. (1969). The Charter of the Land: Custom and Colonization in Fiji. Oxford University Press.
5.Toren, C. (1990). Making Sense of Hierarchy: Cognition as Social Process in Fiji. Athlone Press.
6.Nayacakalou, R. R. (1975). Leadership in Fiji. Institute of Pacific Studies.
7.Sahlins, M. (1962). Moala: Culture and Nature on a Fijian Island. University of Michigan Press.
8.Clunie, F. (1977). Fijian Weapons and Warfare. Fiji Museum.