MORE than 60,000 Indian indentured labourers arrived in Fiji from 1879, laying the foundation for the deep people-to-people ties that continue to bind Fiji and India 147 years later.
Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta highlighted the historic connection as India marked its 80th Independence Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony at India House in Suva yesterday.
“The roots of our relationship go back to 1879, when more than 60,000 Indian indentured laborers arrived in Fiji,” he said.
“They arrived carrying very little in their hands, but they carried something far more powerful-an unwavering determination to build a better future for themselves.”
The Tiranga was raised by Mr Mehta as Fiji became the first country to unfurl the Indian flag in the global Suryapath Tiranga relay, marking the beginning of the celebrations as the sun rose in Suva.
About 250 members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India attended the ceremony, which included patriotic songs, Hindi poetry and cultural performances by students and teachers of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre.
The celebrations followed a National Day Reception at the Grand Pacific Hotel on Wednesday, attended by about 250 guests, including Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel, senior Government officials, diplomats and business representatives.
Mr Mehta said the relationship had grown beyond its historical roots.
“India and Fiji belong to that unique category where the relationship was and is built through the lives, memories, and aspirations of generations,” he added.
The two countries are also marking 56 years of diplomatic relations this year, with cooperation continuing in healthcare, agriculture, education, business, defence and human resource development.
Staff of the High Commission of India and SVCC Suva. Picture: SUPPLIED
High Commissioner Suneet Mehta greeting guests at celebration. Picture: SUPPLIED
High Commissioner Suneet Mehta with Bharatnatyam students of SVCC. Picture: SUPPLIED
Harmonium and vocal teacher of SVCC Viveka Nand and his student perform a song. Picture: SUPPLIED
Left: Kathak students of SVCC perform at the celebration. Picture: SUPPLIED
High Commissioner Suneet Mehta with staff members. Picture: SUPPLIED
Kathak Students of SVCC perform at the celebration. Picture: SUPPLIED
Guests at the event. Picture: SUPPLIED
