THE world’s first-ever World Girmitiya Games will bring together participants from countries sharing a common Girmitiya heritage when the inaugural event takes place in Kolkata, India, from January 3-5, 2027, with Fiji preparing to be part of a historic celebration combining sport, culture and international friendship.
For Fiji, however, the occasion carries significance beyond the sporting arena. With its deep roots in the Girmitiya legacy, the country will have an opportunity to showcase its sporting talent, celebrate its heritage and strengthen its longstanding relationship with India.
With preparations gathering pace, Fiji has completed its selection trials following the final swimming events at the National Aquatic Centre yesterday.
Swimming brought the curtain down on the selection process, following athletics and football trials held on November 1, as organisers work towards assembling the Fiji India Friendship team.
Indian High Commission second secretary (political and projects) Bibhash Lahiri, who is coordinating the selection process, said the response from the Girmit community in Fiji had been encouraging.
He said publicity through newspapers, social media and other platforms had helped attract participants from different parts of the country, reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding the inaugural games.
“We have posted on the newspapers and also on the social media and on various other medias. There was a lot of enthusiasm,” Lahiri said.
“We have got a lot of participants from various cities from Fiji.”
He added that the support had allowed organisers to identify quality athletes to represent the country.
“It’s a good support, like good athletes we have been able to select,” he said.
Yesterday’s swimming trials featured several events for men and women, including the 50 metres freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke, alongside men’s, women’s and mixed relays.
With 23 countries expected to participate, Fiji is preparing to send a delegation of almost 60 people to Kolkata.
“From Fiji, we are sending almost like 60 people to participate in the games,” Lahiri said.
While medals will be among the team’s ambitions, he believes the gathering will also strengthen connections among Girmitiya communities and the wider GIT Media fraternity.
Indian High Commission second secretaryBibhash Lahiri at the National Aquatic Centre on Saturday, 07 October, 2026. Picture: LITIA RITOVA
