We all make use of our island roadways, but when was the last time you paid attention to their given names?
Did you know you could learn more about Hawaiʻi and our history if you did?
Our weekly “Aloha Authentic” segment highlights various streets across the islands, so we can dig into those names and in turn, learn something new.
This week, we bring attention to a traditional implement in the art of hula.
In the ahupuaʻa of Waikele, which lies in the moku of ʻEwa here on Oʻahu, stands a street that carries the name of a traditional hula implement.
We are talking about Pahu Street.
The Hawaiian dance of hula is familiar with people from around the world, but do we really know what hula is?
Hula was and continues to be a means of documenting and storytelling.
There are two forms of hula today: hula kahiko (traditional hula) and hula ʻauana (contemporary hula).
The main difference between the two styles of hula is the implements used.
One of the main implements used in hula kahiko is known as the pahu, or drum.
Made traditionally from hallowed out coconut tree stumps, the pahu was then covered with shark skin to complete the drum.
There are different styles of pahu, most being used by hitting your hands to make the beats while some smaller ones are used with a drum beater known as a kā.
The main purpose of the pahu is to keep the beat in the hula.
And interesting enough, the word pahu also translates to "heartbeat."
Did you know? Now you do.
9 май 2023
