Traditionally, Merina sovereigns relied on the pronouncement of "kabary" (oratory) in public gatherings to communicate policy and reaffirm the relationship between sovereign and public. Due in part to her lack of experience in public speaking and politics, Ranavalona preferred to direct and inform her subordinates through letters that she dictated to missionary-educated court scribes. She strengthened her relationship with the public through occasional kabary and fulfilled the traditional role of the Merina sovereign as bestower of "hasina" (ancestral blessings) by enacting traditional rituals, including the "fandroana" (new year ritual of renewal), tributes to the royal idols, and offerings of "vodiondry" and "jaka beef" at customary occasions. Ranavalona innovated on these traditional rituals by increasing their complexity and symbolism to imbue them with added significance.