Tubou Village on Lakeba Island is preparing for a rare and significant cultural event, as the villagers of Levuka are set to perform a traditional grog (yaqona) ceremony at the request of the Tui Nayau, Ratu Tevita Kapaiwai Lutunauga Uluilakeba Mara.
This ceremonial meke is a deeply rooted tradition in Lauan culture, performed only when specifically requested by the Tui Nayau, a title held by Ratu Tevita, who was yesterday installed as Tui Lau and Sau ni Vanua o Lau.
Levuka village elder Jone Nacanieli explained the rarity of the event, noting that the meke has historically been performed only at the behest of past Tui Nayau titleholders
“This meke is not performed often; it is a special honor reserved for when the Tui Nayau calls upon us,” Nacanieli said.
The ceremony, steeped in ancestral significance, involves the preparation and presentation of yaqona, through a meke to the Tui Nayau.
