Dana is also called Nieuw Eiland and Hokki, the latter not known to the
local people. Dana is a small, uninhabited island, situated thirty
kilometers Southwest of Rai Jua. The rocky, south side of the island is
exposed to deep ocean swells originating in the Southern Ocean, five
thousands kilometers away. Sheep and goats are to be seen on the island.
However, Savu and Rai Jua people do not go to Dana, except for the
annual ritual ceremony. According to Savunese tradition, no one is
allowed to visit Dana for any other purpose.
Savunese believe
that when they die, their spirit reside on Dana. They also believe that
it is important to respect the space of others in order to maintain
harmony in life. Since Dana is considered to be the space for the spirit
of their love ones who passed away, it is considered disrespectful for
westerners to visit the island. However, cruise ships and surf charters
regularly visit Dana, without consultation with the Rai Jua elders, who
are responsible for preserving the tradition.
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