SEVENTY-SEVEN years of cultural diplomacy and decades of shared history between Fiji and India were celebrated at the Suva Civic Centre on April 9, with leaders highlighting the strength of bilateral ties and enduring people-to-people connections.
The event marked the anniversary of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, established in 1950 to promote cultural exchange globally.
Speaking at the celebration, Minister for Foreign Affairs Sakiasi Ditoka said the two countries had built a deep and lasting partnership over the past half century.
“This deep-rooted and long-standing relationship and strong people-to-people ties commenced with the arrival of indentured labourers to our shores between 1879 and 1916, which continues to shape Fiji’s multicultural identity, diverse society and economy,” he said.
Mr Ditoka said the shared history continued to influence modern cooperation between the two nations.
“This shared history is not just for reflection — it continues to shape how we work together today in strengthening our bilateral relations, and how we can architect our future as intimate partners,” he said.
He added that the Indian Council for Cultural Relations had played a central role in strengthening engagement between the two countries.
“Over the years, ICCR has really become the bridge that India connects with Fiji — through culture, learning, and shared experiences.”
The contributions of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Suva were also acknowledged, along with scholarship programs that have enabled hundreds of Fijians to study in India.
The event further highlighted recent bilateral progress, including the signing of eight memorandums of understanding and 18 deliverables aimed at deepening cooperation across various sectors.
Members of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre perform a Bharatnatyam dance during the Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations celebration at the Suva Civic Centre lower auditorium earlier this month. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
Diwakar Dubey and wife Rupa were among those who attended the celebration in Suva. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
Members of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre perform a cultural item during the Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations celebration at the Suva Civic Centre lower auditorium earlier this month. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
From left, Deepshikha Nand, Gyan Prabha Nand, Ritesh Pratap and Pranita Devi during the celebration.
Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
Members during the Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) at the Suva Civic Centre lower auditorium on Thursday, April 09, 2026. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
