Thousands of individuals from various backgrounds gathered in eight rows around the Albert Park arena for what has been described as one of the finest Fijian Nights (Bogi ni Taukei) events since the Hibiscus Festival’s inception in 1956.
The event commenced with the official opening by Adi Lady Lala Mara, the chief minister’s wife, who also presided over the crowning of Bulou Sekinairai Veibataki as the Adi Bogi ni Taukei 1969. Sponsored by the Kadavu Sports Club, Bulou Sekinairai raised $200, earning a return flight on Fiji Airways to Nadi along with a weekend stay at the Mocambo Hotel for herself and a guest.
Adi Sereana Uvu, sponsored by the Tamavua community, secured second place by raising $171, while Luisa Vunivola, representing the Raiwaqa community, finished third with a total of $146.64.
The program began with a warm welcome song by the renowned Rewa entertainment group, Via ni Tebara, under the direction of Jeremaia Lomaivuna. They were followed by performances from the Nurses’ choir, the Tamavua i Cake group, young boys from Nabua Fijian School showcasing a spear dance, the Seni Bua group, and the Lomaiviti Youth Club with traditional songs and meke dances.
Additional performances included contributions from the Adi Cakobau Girls’ School choir, the Centenary choir, Raiwaqa choir, Tamavua choirs, and members of the Tongan community residing in Suva.
Trophies were presented by Adi Litia Tavanavanua to the winners in various categories. The MH Trophy for best men’s meke was awarded to the Kabu Kei Vuda group, the Wing Chang Trophy for choirs with fewer than 20 members went to Maka Ni Korocowiri, while the Raiwaqa choir took home the Prouds Trophy for overall excellence. The Tongan group claimed the Corbetts Butchery Trophy for best costumes.