Vula i Kelikeli
Rain, Thunder, and the Rhythm of March
It’s March, and while Western calendars mark the transition between seasons, Fiji’s traditional lunar calendar tells a richer story—one guided by the sky, the sea, and the land. Welcome to Vula i Kelikeli, the month where the heavens rumble, the soil yields its treasures, and migratory birds bid farewell.
A Month of Thunder and Harvest
Vula i Kelikeli is named for the frequent thunderstorms and heavy rains (yaseyase) that sweep across the islands. This is not just any rain—this is the life-giving force that feeds the earth, ensuring the success of crops planted months ago. Farmers continue harvesting and storing yams, a staple that has long sustained Fijians. Some long yams are even buried as part of traditional preservation methods, ensuring food security in the coming months.
Meanwhile, some of Fiji’s most beloved fruits reach their peak—breadfruit (uto), Polynesian chestnut (ivi), and vutu fruit ripen, providing an abundant supply of natural, homegrown nourishment. Sweet potatoes (kumala) are also being planted, ensuring a steady cycle of fresh produce.
The Sea’s Bounty: Crabs and Lobsters Galore
For those who look to the ocean for their meals, March is a golden time for seafood lovers. The shores are teeming with sea crabs (qari), mud lobsters (mana), and small crabs (kuka), making this the perfect season to enjoy fresh, locally caught delicacies. However, fish is in limited supply this month—a natural reminder of the importance of sustainable fishing practices that align with the lunar calendar.
Golden Plover: A Journey Across the World
One of the most remarkable sights during Vula i Kelikeli is the departure of the Golden Plover (dilio). This small yet resilient shorebird prepares for its long-haul migration, leaving Fiji’s warm shores for the distant lands of Alaska and Siberia. This annual journey, spanning thousands of kilometers, is a testament to nature’s extraordinary cycles—a reflection of the interconnectedness of the world’s ecosystems.
What This Means for You
For food lovers: Now’s the time to enjoy roasted breadfruit or a hearty dish made with fresh ivi and vutu. Visit your local market to savor the flavors of the season.
For yachties & travelers: Keep an eye on changing weather conditions—thunderstorms are common, but they also bring dramatic skies and breathtaking seascapes.
For nature enthusiasts: If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Golden Plover before it takes flight, marking one of the most incredible migrations in the bird world.
Embracing the Wisdom of the Lunar Calendar
Vula i Kelikeli reminds us that nature moves in cycles, not deadlines. Thunder may roll and rain may fall, but just like the yams being harvested and the birds preparing for their journey, everything happens in its own time.
How do you embrace the rhythm of the seasons? Have you spotted the Golden Plover this month? Let us know in the comments!