AS Fiji marks the 147th National Girmit commemoration, two historic institutions in Nausori were honoured yesterday for their deep ties to the girmit era and the legacy of the girmitiya.
The historic Naag Baba Kuti Mandir was visited by the Minister for Public Enterprises, Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Charan Jeath Singh, permanent secretary Dr Vinesh Kumar, and Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta.
Mr Singh acknowledged the temple’s spiritual and historical significance to descendants of girmitiya who once worked in the cane fields and at the CSR sugar mill in Nausori.
“While the indenture system in Fiji began in 1879, the CSR Company established its first sugar mill in Nausori in 1882, bringing in large numbers of labourers from India during that same period,” Mr Singh said.
“This kuti was established during that era by the girmitiya who worked on the cane plantations and at the CSR sugar mill around 140 years ago.”
The minister also handed over 10 solar streetlights to the temple in recognition of its historic importance.
The delegation later visited Dilkusha Home, established in 1904, where the minister reflected on the institution’s roots during the girmit era.
“As we commemorate Girmit 2026, let us remember the sacrifices of our ancestors and honour their legacy by continuing to promote unity, understanding, compassion, and service to humanity.”
