“IF we do not write our own history, others will do it for us and they will be full of inaccuracies.”
This was the advice from author and historian Dr Anurag Subramani while handing over a copy of his book, The Fiji Times at 150: Imagining the Fijian Nation, to students of Suva Grammar School yesterday.
Dr Subramani explained that when he was invited to write the 150-year history of The Fiji Times, he deliberately took a different approach, one that focused on the every day stories of people, not just politicians or major events.
“My book is not going to be about the big men,” Dr Subramani said.
“My book is not going to be a political history of Fiji.
“It’s not going to be an economic history of Fiji, because those have already been done many times.
“We need locals to pick up the pen and write the history of Fiji.”
Dr Subramani encouraged students not only to read more history but to consider writing it themselves.
“Because history is not just about the past, it shapes who we are, and how we see ourselves as a nation.”
The book features lesser-known stories from Fiji’s past, including the history of cinema, theatre, and everyday life.
Dr Subramani said he spent months researching in the National Archives, describing it as a “treasure trove” for aspiring historians. Also speaking at the handover was veteran journalist and The Fiji Times deputy chief of staff, Cheerieann Wilson, who shared the need for the younger generation to stay informed about current events and develop a habit of regular reading.
“I hope this book helps you understand the importance of being aware of what’s happening around you,” Ms Wilson said.
“We need more readers.”
