Ceremony

Ancient Tongan

First Time for 50 Years

For the first time for 50 years, the Tuhakabakanava ceremony was performed in Tonga, at Nukualofa, on May 6, to celebrate the jubilee of King George V.

The ceremony was carried out by 1500 native children. They were placed, at regular intervals, along six miles of beach around Nukualofa, and each had a supply of brushwood torches, which burn long and brilliantly.

At a prearranged signal, at 7 p.m.—the firing of a gun—each youngster lit a torch. The effect was extraordinary. The long line of lights was reflected in the

quiet waters of the lagoon—there was about it a suggestion of fairy land. The display lasted for an hour.

This was the highest honour that could be paid to His Majesty King George.

The last time this ceremony was performed by the Tongans was over 50 years ago and in honour of their own King George of Tonga — a man both reverenced and feared.

The origin of this ceremony seems to be now unknown. All that is known is that it is the greatest compliment the Tongans can bestow.