Tradition In Whale Rider

Tradition is a long established custom or belief that is passed on from generation to generation. Cultures has their own traditions and many times they are broken when new generations are born. The film Whale Rider illustrates a culture in transition. The Maori people of New Zealand are looking for their male descendant of Paikea, a male ancestor who survived on the back of a whale after his boat capsized. Koro Pai’s grandfather has been looking for the next chief to lead them and restore traditions. Unfortunately, this is broken when first born Pai’s brother dies at birth. What the Maori people and Koro does not see is Pai is the leader and healer the culture has been looking for. The people of Maori lose hope of a leader after Pai’s brother passing, they fear their is no future for them and …show more content…
The old Chief is convinced that the tribe's misfortunes began at Pai's birth and calls for his people to bring their twelve-year-old boys to him for training. Koro teaches them the ancient chants and worrier techniques. Pai wants to learn alongside the young boys but Koro insists she leaves. She continues to love Koro unconditionally and does not resent him for this rather she knows his devotion to the Maori people and recognizes she is better than the young boys. By uncle Rawiri teaches her how to fight with the taiaha she is able to beat Hemi one of Koros student. Koro witnesses the defeat and is angered because Pai again defies traditions. Koro takes the boys out to the middle of the ocean for their last test to determine who will be chief he throws his reiputa into the water and the boy who retrieves it will be the new leader. However, the turnout is not in his favor Pai ends up secretly retrieving the reiputa. Pai strength and determination show the culture they are stronger than believed and can moved forward as a community within their ancient culture