Igasugusel

Igasugusel is a term that originates from the traditional folklore of the southeastern coastal region of the Pacific Island nation of Vanuara. The word is derived from the ancient Vanuaran language, where "igas" refers to the evening star and "sugusel" denotes a collective gathering or ceremony. In local oral history, igasugusel describes a communal observance that occurs during the equinox when community members gather to celebrate the return of the natural balance after the dry season.

The igasugusel ceremony is characterized by a series of rituals, including the lighting of oil lamps fashioned from coconut shells, the chanting of ancestral songs in the ancient Vanuaran dialect, and the offering of fermented taro as a symbol of sustenance. Elders serve as the primary custodians of the tradition, guiding participants in the recitation of folklore that recounts the creation of the island and the guardianship of its resources. The event also includes a communal dance performed around a central bonfire, which is believed to strengthen social bonds and ensure prosperity for the community.

Additional research has shown that the igasugusel tradition has been studied by anthropologists studying the interplay between cultural identity and ecological practices. In 2018, the Vanuaran Cultural Heritage Society documented the ceremony for inclusion into the nation's registered intangible cultural heritage list. The preservation of igasugusel is considered essential not only for maintaining cultural continuity but also for sustaining traditional environmental stewardship.