NAGHOL BLONG RAGA

This is portrait of a land diver on Pentecost Island or Raga (tribal name) preparing for a jump. The Naghol (Nangol) is held between April and June every year. Men in the southern part of the island jump from tall towers (around 20 to 30 metres) with lantana vines tied to their feet, in a ritual believed to ensure a good yam harvest. It is also used to show acceptance into manhood.