In Fiji, this drink was originally for ceremonial purposes, but over time it has become a social drink. When visiting a village, it is customary to present a gift of kava, made from the dried root of a pepper plant.
If visiting a village or private home, one will most likely be invited to take part in this ceremony and they consider it rude to decline. The drink is spicy and numbs the tongue. When offered the ceremonial cup, clap once, drink all the kava in the cup, and then clap again.
Kava, otherwise known as yaqona, or quite simply, grog, is the traditional national drink of Fiji. It is a mildly narcotic drink made from the crushed root of the yaqona (pronounced yang-GO-na) strained with water.
It is served in a large communal bowl as part of the traditional kava ceremony. When drunk, it creates a pleasant, numb feeling around the mouth, lips, and tongue, and a sense of calm and relaxation. Yet despite the natural calming effects of the drink, the true experience lies in partaking in the complete kava ceremony.
Kava is traditionally served as part of a ceremonial atmosphere, most commonly in welcoming guests into a village and on important occasions. So if you are participating in a kava ceremony, here are some pointers on kava ceremony etiquette.
Fijian people are notoriously friendly and accepting, so they will undoubtedly assist you through the process. Firstly, as a participant at a kava ceremony, your hosts expect you to dress respectfully and modestly.
It is tradition to present the leader (your host) with a Kava root, which you can find at any Fijian market. This will show your true understanding of the Fijian culture and the significance of the kava ceremony.
The kava ceremony focuses on the communal Kava tanoa (bowl). Guests sit in a circle around the bowl which is placed in front of the leader. The ceremony commences with the actual production of the kava.
The plant is pounded, and the pulp placed into a cloth sack and mixed with water. The end result is a brownish colored liquid–the Kava gold. It is then strained and ready for drinking.
Your host will offer kava as high tide (full cup) or low tide (half cup). When presented with the kava, clap once and yell ‘Bula!’ (Fijian for hello). Drink the kava in one gulp if possible, clap three more times and end with the word Maca–pronounced ‘Matha’.
