Lucky Charms of Fiji

Fiji's charm tradition blends Melanesian Indigenous practice with the traditions brought by the large Indo-Fijian community (descendants of Indian indentured laborers). The iTaukei (indigenous Fijian) tradition involves ancestral protection through yaqona (kava) ceremonies in which spirits are appeased and blessing is collectively sought. Specific ancestral objects (yau) and totem clans maintain ceremonial protective roles.

The large Indo-Fijian Hindu community maintains traditions of Ganesha worship, diya lamps, mala beads, and om symbols, giving Fiji an unusual dual Pacific-Hindu character. The sea turtle is a deeply auspicious creature in Fijian culture, representing longevity and wisdom. The tabua (polished sperm whale tooth) is the most prestigious gift object in traditional Fijian culture, given at births, marriages, deaths, and diplomatic meetings as a blessing object of enormous power.