Anshika Rao took a significant step by shaving her head to participate in the final rituals for her late father, Ernest Elvis, in the rural community of Rakiraki over the weekend. In Hindu customs, the responsibility of performing these rites typically falls to a male family member, which can pose a challenge when daughters are the only children available to honor their parents.
While it has increasingly become more accepted for daughters to undertake these rituals in Fiji, Anshika’s decision to shave her head marks a remarkable first, showcasing her dedication and love for her father. The act of head shaving is traditionally associated with purification after the loss of a family member, a ritual that is especially significant for male relatives.
Anshika is currently a third-year student at the University of the South Pacific, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Network Engineering. Her decision not only highlights the evolving roles within family and societal structures but also reinforces the deep emotional commitments individuals have towards their loved ones, regardless of gender roles.
This inspiring act reflects Anshika’s profound respect and devotion to her father’s memory. It emphasizes how traditions can adapt and be redefined, as families navigate their unique circumstances while honoring cultural practices. In this way, Anshika’s story could pave the way for more inclusive practices in which daughters can take part in important family rituals.
Leave a comment