Sevusevu - Photos Added
Eowyn
Fri 25 Jun 2010 05:23
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Éowyn is presently
anchored off Naigani Island Fiji, in position 17:34.7337S 178:40.630E
Native Fijians have gone to
extreme lengths to protect and preserve their ancient traditions. The fear that
these might be lost as Fijians became outnumbered by Indians were foremost in
the justification of the 3 military coups since 1987.
The ceremony of Sevusevu is
one of the cornerstone traditions. Anyone entering a village should ask to be
taken to the Chief and then offer his gift (or Sevusevu) This will comprise
about 1/2 kilo of roots of the Yoquona plant from which the narcotic drink of
Kava is made.
The visitor sits before the
chief having observed the many required protocols to get even this far. The gift
is either placed on the floor before the Chief or passed to the introducer. The
greeting "Noqu sevusevu gor" is spoken. If the Chief accepts the gift he will
solemnly pick it up and then bestow his blessing on your family, crew and home
Country. The giver and the Chief then
clap hands 3 times and this marks one's acceptance as an honoured visitor to the
village.
On departing from the Chief's
presence, the farewell "Noqu yaquona ni tatau" is spoken.
We had our first Sevusevu
today on the Island of Makogai. This Island was formerly a colony for over 5,000
lepers. Of course it has not been used as such for many years since leprosy was
cured. The buildings even included a gaol and an outside cinema as well as the
more sombre reminder in the cemetery.
 Rui & Graham after Sevusevu
We are sailing in company with
Rui and Ana, from Thor VI and tonight we anchored at the small Island
of Naigani. The last 24 hours have been the wettest since we left St Lucia
but wind conditions are favourable. Tomorrow we take the route inside the
barrier reef along the North coast of Viti Levu. We must report to Customs yet
again before heading to the WARC rendezvous at Musket Cove.
 Noeluna at Sunset in Savusavu
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