|
|
 |
The custom or traditional Fiji word for kava is “Yaqona”. It is a water based infusion drink made using the kava plant – Piper methysticm. Kava is a member of the pepper family, which explains its earthy and sometimes spicy taste. Pre Christianity times - known in Fiji as the time of the old religion – it was used for ceremonial occasions, primarily only by chiefs and people of high hierarchical status. Like other countries within the South Pacific, Fiji Kava culture has expanded now to the point that it is part of everyday life and used by all walks of life. It is commonly used to welcome guests, as a form of social lubricant - i.e. not unlike having a beer with some friends – and almost a daily ritual for many Fijians.
Whilst Fiji Kava Culture has been modernized, there are still elements of protocol that date back to the early times of kava usage. Some of these practices include sitting cross legged facing the chief, who in all cases will have the kava bowl, known as a Tanoa in front of him. Women usually sit behind men and are normally not included in the first round of kava. This however has dated somewhat and certainly if a woman participant is a guest of honor then she would be included in the first “round”. Elements of respect to the old religion times are also still respected. For instance it would be considered a taboo to walk through a group of people sitting drinking kava, you are expected to walk around them. The tanoa which the kava is served often will have a cord that leads from it to a white cowry. The white cord represents a connection to the spirits and thus it is sacrosanct to step over this cord, or indeed even turn your back on the tanoa.
Yaqona is normally prepared within the Tanoa. The root is dried and powdered, unlike other South Pacific countries which prepare their kava in its green state. When mixed with water, the kava juice looks not unlike dirty or mud water… it tastes pretty much like muddy water as well! Kava is drunk from a bilo – a coconut shell cut in two. With Fiji kava drinking tradition you clap before accepting the bilo and say “Bula”, which means “cheers”, before sculling back the kava in once swig. Remember it’s not wine and isn’t; known for its pleasant taste so it’s best to get it down quickly! Once you have drunk a bilo, other participants in the kava session will have a shell. If you are ever participating in a kava session and are not sure about it, certainly have the first bilo that is offered to you, as it would be poor manners to knock it back. However from there on it is not considered impolite to refuse further shells…however we recommend that you certainly have some more! |
|
|
|
|
|
| 0 items |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Categories
