A community-led festival celebrating Fijian culture and its historical links with the British Army is set to be held at Aldershot in the UK tomorrow.
The event, called the Bula Festival, will also mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, acknowledging Fiji’s support for the British Army.
Organisers say more than 10,000 visitors are expected to celebrate the occasion.
A statement said the festival activities would feature a sevens rugby competition, cultural performances, live musical acts, displays and interactive experiences by the British Army, Fijian food stands and amusement rides.
The festival is a collaborative effort involving Nutkhut, the British Army, Rushmoor Borough Council, and the Fiji Support Network.
Ajay Chabra, the co-founder and artistic director of Nutkhut, said that as a British-Fijian, Bula was a real highlight of this year.
“It is a wonderful and unique opportunity to immerse myself in Fijian and South Pacific culture and connect and celebrate this vast and diverse community,” he said.
“It is always a great day where attendees get to experience incredible food, performances and art.”
Colonel Timothy J Petransky, the Army’s lead for engagement in the South East, said many people were looking forward to hosting the festival at Aldershot again.
“It continues to be a great opportunity to tell the stories of the many Fijians that have served and continue to serve in the British Armed Forces whilst also getting to learn more about what makes Fijian and Pacific Island cultures so special,” he said.
Performances will feature groups from across the UK, including the Bollywood Battalion, Kenyan dancers, Indian classical artists from Nutkhut, and Rushmoor residents.
The statement said the Heritage Pavilion would present stories of British Fijians in the military through the 212 team and Nutkhut’s VR project, The Girmit Experience.
The event will include Gurkha displays and Bula Talks on sports, service and culture, as well as Pacific-inspired music sessions, workshops on South Pacific navigation and storytelling.
