Queen Camilla’s emotional state during a royal tour raised concerns among netizens, particularly during a vibrant traditional ceremony.
The King and Queen of England recently concluded their four-day state visit to Samoa. On their final day, a heartfelt farewell ceremony took place, honoring King Charles III and a visibly emotional Queen Camilla, showcasing the lively spirit of Samoan culture.
As rain fell heavily, the couple arrived at the event, navigating a wet red carpet while sheltered under umbrellas. They made their way to a stage adorned with vibrant woven mats and fresh flower garlands.
The King, who was bestowed the honorary title of To’aiga-o-Tumua by the village of Siumu, and the Queen were seated on grand golden thrones, welcomed with respectful words from village elders in traditional attire.
During the farewell, the royals participated in an “ava ceremony,” an ancient ritual that involves preparing a drink from the ava plant. In a poignant moment, the specially made drink was presented to King Charles III in a polished coconut shell, which he graciously accepted and sipped from.
Despite the rain, villagers showcased their culture with a series of dances and performances for the royals.
A standout moment was a lively war dance, where dancers skillfully handled flaming sticks, captivating and amusing the royal couple.
During the event, King Charles III expressed his deep connection to Samoa and gratitude for the region’s warm hospitality, stating, “I will always be devoted to this part of the world and hope to return and see you all again.”
He expressed his appreciation for the locals who made a special effort to welcome them by decorating the roads and leaving daily gifts at their hotel.
In another moving moment, a Samoan chief spoke directly to the King, acknowledging the royal family’s history in Samoa: “Your Papa Prince Philip was here, as were your brothers. Thank you for making the time for us. Your royal visit has uplifted our community.”