The installation ceremony of the Turaga Tui Nayau Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara will be remembered as an occasion where century-old ties of kinship and tradition were reaffirmed.
Travelling from the highlands of Nakorotubu in Ra, Na Turaga Na Gone Sau Ratu Jioji Malani and his kinsmen presented their gifts to Ratu Tevita yesterday.
Mr Malani said the installation was a solemn and noble occasion for the two families as they revisited connections, forged through warfare and strategic marriages dating back to the 1800s.
He explained that the name ‘Malani’, often thought to originate from the West of Fiji, came from Matai Lakeba.
“One of our forefathers was born and named by one of the women sent from Lakeba, Lau. He was named Ratu Kuliniasi Roko Malani and that’s how our name came to be,” he said.
“Also, another lady from the chiefly clan of Vunirewa, Adi Senirewa, was traditionally approached and courted by one of our forefathers.”
Mr Malani said he was grateful to be able to witness the ceremony and connect with extended family in Lau.
“We are so lucky to be alive in this time, and we thank the Lord for giving us this opportunity to be part of the installation of the Turaga na Tui Lau, Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua kei Lau.”
