A traditional Fijian custom has been revived with the reconnection of an old relationship. This connection is something that local landowners have always been aware of in the past. It primarily involves gatherings for traditional ceremonies, family reunions, and connecting with ancestors after many years.
Recently, the MacDonald family from Germany met with the Vunivalu clan from Natalaira, Dawasamu, Tailevu after several years of separation. Isei Turaga, the leader of the Navunivalu clan, emphasized that they have been maintaining communication for the past few years and were able to witness the revival of their cultural ties in the previous year, spurred by the sharing of wine from their regions.
Historically, prior to the establishment of the church in 1800, a woman named Losana Soli from Natalaira had married an Englishman who used to sail from India to Fiji. This narrative has been passed down through generations, and younger family members have continued to hear these stories.
Isei mentioned that one of Losana’s grandchildren resides in Australia and is eager to understand which locations in Fiji hold significance for their family connections, as this history has always fascinated them. In recent years, they were able to reconnect with another woman from Natalaira who resides in Navesau, sharing insights about their ancestral ties.
A gathering took place recently, marking a significant day where families could reunite and strengthen their connections. This reunion allowed the Vunivalu clan to outline plans for ongoing collaboration, especially as their ancestry dates back several years.
During the 1800s, there was less defined clan structure, but now they have distinct clan, sub-clan, and tribal classifications. They have also brought together eight senior children from the village of Natalaira to further discuss their familial ties.
Isei noted that the older generations are often key in fostering these connections. He stated that families come from various places, including New Zealand, England, Vanuatu, Australia, and other regions to join in these celebrations.
He highlighted that this is a wonderful story of their search for ancestral connections, as preparations for their communal celebrations are underway.