20/08/2026
Hii and Bula everyone, Shama here with a reflection on the Indo Fijian Maharani.
When I first created her, I wanted her to feel familiar. I wanted our women to see a little bit of themselves in her with connection to something that would take us back in time, to the women who carried so much on their shoulders and simply kept going.
For me, she became more than just an illustration. She was a constant reminder to take each day as it comes, to honour the principles she stood for, and to live by it.
Because the truth is, our women have always carried big roles and even bigger responsibilities, often without much reprieve or rest. We were taught that resilience meant keeping going, no matter what.
And that may seem like it's the right path but then it starts taking a toll on your mind, body and soul. The Maharani kept me accountable, she made sure I stayed on course despite what may arise from the journey and to keep going because this means something.
Jungli Chilli has required a lot of faith, so much courage and a whole lot of resilience. I didnโt know exactly what the outcome would look like, but I knew where I wanted to go.
The Maharani became part of that journey, and became a reflection of our women, our history and the strength we carry forward.
The Indo Fijian Maharani will return and when she does, sheโll have that modern twist... because we honour where we come from while making space for where weโre going.
Thatโs how we do it here at Jungli Chilli.
๐๐ถ๏ธ๐ซก๐ธ๐ฝ
