Turaga Na Ravunisa

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The Turaga na Ravunisa is a Fijian Chiefly title of the Lau Islands, [1] in particular the village of Lomaloma [2] on the Island of Vanua Balavu.

Contents

The Title

The title holder must be the most senior member or Turaga i Taukei of the Yavusa Gala [1] and generally is held by a man. Initially his title will be Tui Lomaloma and he relinquishes that title upon the traditional installation when he becomes the Ravunisa. The candidate must have white hair or it is believed he will die if he is installed before his hair becomes white [3] Secondly, approval for the installation must come from the Turaga na Rasau. [3]

A Brief History

The Ravunisa and his people originate from Mualevu [3] from the Senimoli Family and due to a disagreement they left to reside Lomaloma. [3]

Footnotes

  1. 1 2 Chart, 1881, Native Registrar Tikina of Lomaloma, NLFC
  2. Ai Vola Ni Kawa, Fijian Affairs
  3. 1 2 3 4 Lau Island, p226, by A. Hocart

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