THE High Commission of India in Fiji launched its mega cultural festival, “Namaste Pacifika”, a Festival of India in Fiji and six other Pacific Island Countries (Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu) on October 28, 2017. It is the first-ever Festival of India to be celebrated in Fiji and six other Pacific Island Countries.
The Festival is being organised ‘to commemorate the India@70, which is 70 years of Indian Independence’ and ‘to present some colorful facets of diverse and rich Indian culture’ and to spread the message of ‘peace, happiness, unity and integrity’.
The festival was inaugurated by the President of Republic of Fiji Jioji Konrote. Inaugurating the festival his address highlighted the contribution of the Girmitiyas in the development of Fiji and message of harmony and peace imbibed in the Indian Culture.
World famous qawwal and Bollywood singers, Sabri Brothers, presented a soulful performance on this occasion. The dance performances by students of Indian Cultural Centre, Suva was an additional attraction.
Sabri brothers’ show mesmerised the audiences in towns and cities in Fiji.
Two master Chefs from Ashoka Hotel India served mouth-watering delicacies to the guests.
The President and other dignitaries enjoyed delicious Indian food. Chief Justice, Anthony Gates, many ministers, permanent secretaries and diplomats also graced the function.
Namaste Pacifika is a cultural bonanza which is planned to last for six months (October 2017 – March 2018).
