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The 147th Fiji Girmit Remembrance Day was commemorated with great pride and emotion on Saturday, 16 May, at the Malaeola Community Centre in MÄngere, Auckland, bringing together more than one thousand people from all walks of life, particularly members of the Fiji-Indian community. The annual event served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices, resilience, and contributions of the Girmitiyas â the indentured labourers who were taken to Fiji between 1879 and 1916 and whose legacy continues to shape generations today.
The programme began with multi-faith prayers reflecting the diverse religious and cultural heritage of the Fiji-Indian community. Representatives from Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian faiths offered prayers for peace, unity, and continued harmony within New Zealandâs multicultural society. The atmosphere throughout the day was filled with respect, remembrance, and celebration of identity.
The event featured a wide range of colourful cultural performances that highlighted the rich traditions of the Indo-Fijian community. Traditional dances, devotional songs, musical performances, and cultural presentations entertained the audience and showcased the talents of local artists and youth groups. The performances also reflected the enduring connection between heritage, language, and cultural values that have been preserved across generations.
Fiji Girmit NZ President Krish Naidu welcomed all dignitaries, community leaders, and guests to the celebration. In his address, he acknowledged the significance of Girmit Remembrance Day and paid tribute to the courage and determination of the Girmit ancestors whose sacrifices laid the foundation for future generations. He emphasised the importance of preserving history and ensuring that younger generations understand the struggles and achievements of their forefathers.
Mr Naidu also highlighted the strong contribution of the Fiji-Indian community to New Zealand society in areas such as business, education, public service, healthcare, and community development. He thanked community members, volunteers, sponsors, and organisers for their dedication in making the event a success and for continuing to keep the spirit of Girmit alive in New Zealand.
One of the major highlights of the event was the honouring of more than 25 senior members of the Fiji community. The recognition ceremony was led by Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins alongside other dignitaries. The senior community members were acknowledged for their lifelong service, leadership, and valuable contributions towards the development and wellbeing of the Fiji community in New Zealand.
Among the distinguished guests present at the event were former Governor-General Sir Anand Satyanand, Indian High Commissioner Muanpuii Saiawi, Consul General of India in Auckland Dr M. M. Sethi, Members of Parliament from various political parties, community representatives, business leaders, and several invited guests from across New Zealand. Sir Anand Satyanand commended the organisers for preserving the history and values of the Girmitiyas and acknowledged the remarkable achievements of the Fiji-Indian community both in Fiji and abroad. Other dignitaries also praised the unity and strong community spirit displayed during the celebration.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon joined the festivities later in the programme and received a warm welcome from the audience. Addressing the gathering, he recognised the significant contribution of the Fiji-Indian community to New Zealandâs social, cultural, and economic development. He also participated in the felicitation of senior members of the Fiji community and expressed appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Girmit descendants.
The celebration was not only a remembrance of history but also a reflection of cultural resilience and unity. Families, young people, elders, and community organisations came together to honour the struggles of their ancestors while celebrating the progress and achievements of the present generation. The strong turnout at the event highlighted the continued importance of Girmit Day among Indo-Fijians living in New Zealand.
The 147th Fiji Girmit4 Remembrance Day concluded on a positive and uplifting note, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of pride and appreciation for the sacrifices of their ancestors. The event once again demonstrated the strength, resilience, and unity of the Fiji-Indian community in New Zealand and reinforced the importance of preserving Girmit history for generations to come. -Yugal Parashar