Tonga: Ta’ovala

Tonga is the only place you will find its people wearing a woven mat around their waist, over their clothes. Legend has it that upon return from a long-fought battle upon the open seas the Tu’i Tonga’s (royal fishermen’s) vala ngatu (traditional clothes made from tree bark) were left tattered and revealing.

So, to cover themselves before they were to present their catch to the Tu’i Tonga the fishermen ripped off their sail made from fala (woven pandanus mats) and distributed it proportionately so that all were modest to stand before their King. This would be the first time the ta’ovala is worn.

Since then, the ta’ovala is worn to show loyalty and respect to the throne. It is worn as a symbol of the fonua (homeland/country). When you bind your ta’ovala to yourself, you are binding all of the teachings that you were raised with so that you take it with you when you leave home whether for the day or the rest of your life. There are also certain types of ta’ovala that are appropriate and designated for particular gatherings. A lot of times this is designated by your rank and relation to said gathering.