Dakuwaqa, the Shark God of Fiji
Fiji's shark god once fought every guardian of the islands' reefs. Then he met a giant octopus that made him promise never to harm the fishermen of Kadavu.
What was reported
In Fijian tradition, Dakuwaqa is a shark god who could take the form of a man. He travelled the seas around Fiji, challenging the guardian gods of each reef and island to battle, and winning.
When he reached the island of Kadavu, he met its guardian, a giant octopus, which wrapped its arms around him and held him until he begged for mercy. He promised to protect the people of Kadavu from sharks forever. It's said that Kadavu fishermen can still swim safely among sharks.
Explanations offered
Dakuwaqa is part of Fijian oral tradition, showing respect for the sea and the dangers of sharks. Shark gods and guardians appear in many Pacific cultures. Fiji is now known for its shark conservation and diving.
- When
- Told for generations
- Where
- Kadavu, Fiji
- Witnesses
- Fijian tradition
- Status
- Legend
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.
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