Cibi

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The Cibi (/ðimbi/) is a Fijian war dance, performed by the national rugby union team before each match.

The origins of the cibi date back to the country's warring times with their Pacific neighbours. On their return home the warriors heralded their victory by displaying flags - one for every enemy slain. They were met by the women with songs and accompanying gestures - often obscene! The cibi was meant for open battle to inspire the troops, but it was sung with more vigour when the victorious army returned home to celebrate.

In 1939 when Fiji prepared for its first-ever tour of New Zealand, the captain, Ratu Sir George Cakobau, thought his team should have a war dance to match the All Blacks' haka. His team adopted the cibi and went on to become the only team to remain unbeaten on a full tour to New Zealand.

The Cibi

Fijian

English

Ai tei vovo, tei vovo E ya, e ya, e ya, e ya; Tei vovo, tei vovo ''E ya, e ya, e ya, e ya Rai tu mai, rai tu mai Oi au a virviri kemu bai Rai tu mai, rai ti mai ''Oi au a virviri kemu bai Toa yalewa, toa yalewa Veico, veico, veico Au tabu moce koi au ''Au moce ga ki domo ni biau E luvu koto ki ra nomu waqa O kaya beka au sa luvu sara Nomu bai e wawa mere ''Au tokia ga ka tasere

Make ready, make ready Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh; Make ready, make ready Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh Look hither, look hither I build a breastwork for you, Look hither, look hither I build a breastwork for you A cock and a hen, They attack, attack, attack It is tabu for me to slumber Except to the sound of breakers Your ship is sunk below Don't think I'm drowned too. Your defence is just waiting To crumble when I prick it.

See also

• Haka of the All Blacks
• Kailao
• Siva tau

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