AS we welcome the festival of lights, I extend my warmest wishes to you and your families for Diwali. Celebrating Diwali in the heart of our Fijian homeland, reminds us of the rich legacy carried forward from our Girmit ancestors, whose resilience and cultural pride laid the foundation for our vibrant Indo-Fijian identity.
Diwali not only symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, but also celebrates the enduring spirit of unity, progress, and the cultural richness that continues to shine brightly in our beloved Fiji. As we celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Light, we pause to honour the deep cultural legacy passed down to us through the generation rooted in sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering faith.
This year’s theme, “Women, Culture, and Light: From Girmit Roots to the Modern Era,” is very powerful and timely. It calls on us to reflect on the central role of women, our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and daughters who have been the quiet torchbearers of our traditions, preserving and nurturing our cultural identity through acts both big and small. From the early days of Girmit, when women endured hardship yet kept the diya of hope burning, to the present day where they continue to lead in homes, workplaces, and communities, their light continues to illuminate our path forward.
Diwali reminds us not only of the triumph of good over evil, but also of the strength we draw from our collective heritage. Today, as we light our homes and hearts with diyas, let us also light the way for a future where women’s voices are empowered, culture is celebrated, and our shared journey shaped by history but directed by vision continues to flourish.
More importantly Women are seen as the earthly embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi during Diwali. Their presence is considered auspicious, and they are honoured as symbols of prosperity, purity, and abundance. Homes are decorated with rangoli and lights, led by women, to welcome the goddess. All over the world, Women are the soul of Diwali.
They are the light behind the lights, blending spirituality, culture, and care. Their role is not just supportive, it is central and transformative. Celebrating Diwali also means celebrating women “past and present” who have kept the festival alive, meaningful, and radiant. This Diwali, my thoughts are also with those who, for any reason, may not be celebrating.
May the light of Diwali bring strength to those facing challenges, and may God give you the resilience to overcome hardships. We stand with you in hope and solidarity. Let this Diwali be a time where we move forward in harmony and unity, embracing the values of peace, respect, and love for all especially honouring the important role of women in our families, communities, and cultural heritage.
May we use this time to reaffirm our collective commitment to gender respect and equality, drawing strength from the resilience and grace of the women who have illuminated our journey from Girmit roots to the modern era. May the festival of lights inspire us to strengthen the bonds of our community, guided by the youthful spirit of togetherness and the enduring light of Diwali.
Wishing you all a joyous and prosperous Diwali, and Saal Mubarak!
