CULTURE
The
people of Vanuatu, a name which means 'Land Eternal', are predominantly
Melanesian.
The Ni Vanuatu have populated these islands for centuries with
more than 115 distinctly different cultures and languages still
thriving here, Vanuatu is recognised as one of the most culturally
diverse countries in the world. There are small communities of
French, British, Australian, New Zealand, Vietnamese, Chinese
and other Pacific Island people living in harmony with the Ni
Vanuatu.
Until 1980 Vanuatu, then known as the New Hebrides, was jointly
administered by France and Great Britain as a 'Condominium'.
Bislama (Pidgin English) is the national language of Vanuatu,
but English and French are also widely spoken.
Religion is Christian. Churches are found throughout the islands.
The country's most remarkable custom, land diving or "Nago"
comes from Pentecost. Every year in April, a 20 to 30 metre tower
is constructed for the land diving ceremony. It takes about 5
weeks to build and all materials come from the forest: vines,
branches, trunks ... During this time the men live separately
from their wives. On several occasions between April and May,
boys and men will jump from these structures with two long vines
attached to their ankles which break their fall. Each diver must
select his own vine - its length and elasticity is of utmost importance.
The jump is made to ensure a great yam harvest the following year.
Young boys take part but only after circumcision, at the age of
seven or eight. As many as 25 jumps may be performed and, as the
height of the jumps increase, so does the tempo of the villagers
who gyrate and stomp in traditional dress at the foot of the tower.
The atmosphere is electric, the experience unforgettable.
It is possible for a limited number of visitors to witness this
incredible event. A prolonged stay captures the build-up of emotion
before the jump.
