Anshika Rao took a significant and heartfelt step by shaving her head to honor her late father during his final rites in rural Rakiraki this past weekend. Ernest Elvis, a resident of Waimari, was remembered by his three daughters, as traditionally, these rituals are performed by male family members in Hindu customs.
While it is becoming increasingly common for daughters to partake in such rituals in Fiji, Anshika’s decision to shave her hair stands out as a poignant display of love and duty, marking her commitment to her family and honoring her father’s memory in a deeply respected manner. In Hindu tradition, the act of shaving one’s head symbolizes purification, a ritual usually reserved for male relatives performing last rites.
Currently a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Network Engineering at the University of the South Pacific, Anshika’s compassionate act not only reflects her personal grief but also reshapes cultural narratives around gender roles in familial rites.
This act serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that love and respect for family transcends traditional gender norms. It highlights a progressive shift in cultural practices, allowing for greater representation and participation of women in significant spiritual rituals.
In summary, Anshika Rao’s bold gesture of shaving her head to perform the final rites for her father underscores the evolving role of women in spiritual and cultural customs, demonstrating how deep familial love can break boundaries and create new traditions.
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