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Poi at a Sacred Shrine Sparks Debate | Christchurch News
Auckland lecturer Dr. Tangaroa Paora sparked global debate after performing poi at Japan’s sacred Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, drawing millions of views but also fierce backlash for turning a holy site into a performance stage. Critics argue tourists increasingly treat such shrines as photo backdrops rather than spiritual spaces, especially when rules already exist to protect the sanctity of worship. Though Paora apologized and clarified it was a personal visit, even some Māori voices weighed in, noting traditional protocols discourage dancing at sacred grounds. The shrine, over 1,300 years…
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