Organized in Fiji, the firewalking festivals are astonishing gatherings where Hindu participants purify themselves from physical and spiritual impurities by walking on hot embers or coals. With 37% of the Fijian population being Hindus, Indian celebrations are always grandiose. Among them, the renowned South Indian Firewalking Festival takes place at Suva Point between July and August.

During this ceremony, participants dressed in yellow first bathe in the sea before walking barefoot across the hot embers or coals. A tradition involves piercing the tongues, cheeks, and bodies of participants with skewers, while their faces are covered in yellow turmeric. These practices, performed by Hindu priests, symbolize prosperity and protection against diseases. Prior to the event, participants follow an ascetic lifestyle for 10 days, meditating to honor the goddess Maha Devi.

Another famous location for firewalking is the Malolo Temple, located in the south of Nadi. Every year in April, devotees walk through a pit filled with burning wood embers during this ceremony.

The tradition of firewalking originated from the island of Beqa, and these exceptional festivals are now organized in various regions of Fiji, particularly along the Coral Coast, between April and September during the full moon. If you are planning a visit during these periods, it is advisable to check the dates of Hindu firewalking performances to witness these unique events.