THE Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) has urged members of the community to take advantage of attractive discounts during Diwali and to also spare a thought for the underprivileged, the needy and the poor.
NCCI president Dr Ram Raju said Diwali was one of the most important interfaith festivals that highlighted Fiji’s multicultural, multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multiracial society.
He said businesses thrive during this time of the year and one can expect bargain prices for almost every item for the household.
“Diwali is more than a celebration. It’s a vibrant festival celebrated by all its citizens and faith showcasing Fiji’s unique identity,” Dr Raju said.
“Diwali is always revered as the most important of all religious festivals in the Hindu calendar in Fiji and all over the world.
“The festival is traditionally spread over five-days culminating with a joyous and grand celebration with sweets, snacks and vegetarian delights that is shared with friends, families, neighbours and even strangers.”
He said the event was a traditional celebration of life, prosperity and wellbeing and generally involved wishing each other peace, harmony, hope and goodwill, tolerance and forgiveness.
“Diwali transcends entire communities and Fijians have come to love and embrace the true spirit of this popular festival of lights.”
Dr Raju said the celebration of Diwali in Fiji had a special historical significance as it was a living testament to the lasting impact of the Indenture System or the Girmit era that started in 1879 until 1916 that brought to Fiji just over 60,000 Indian labourers.
“In 1974 Diwali Festival was declared a public holiday by the Alliance Government led by late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara who was the first Prime Minister of Fiji after independence in 1970.
“This year marks the 50th anniversary of Diwali as a public holiday (in Fiji).
“The Coalition Government led by Sitiveni Rabuka has added yet another milestone by declaring Girmit as a Public Holiday since 2023, recognising the historical significance of the Indenture system and contribution made by the Indians who made Fiji their home.”
