NCCI views Diwali as one of the most important interfaith festivals that highlights Fiji’s multicultural, multireligious, multi-ethnic and multiracial society.
Diwali is more than a celebration. It’s a vibrant festival celebrated by all it’s citizens and faith showcasing Fiji’s unique identity.
Diwali is always revered as the most important of all religious festivals in the Hindu calendar in Fiji and all over the world.
The festival is traditionally spread over five-days culminating with a joyous and grand celebration with sweets, snacks and vegetarian delights that is shared with friends, families, neighbours and even strangers.
Lighting of diyas (traditional lamps made of clay), candles and flickering lights brightens the homes, shops and skies as well.
It’s a delightful celebration of life, prosperity and wellbeing and generally wishing each other peace, harmony, hope and goodwill, tolerance and forgiveness.
Diwali transcends entire communities and Fijians have come to love and embrace the true spirit of this popular festival of lights.
Celebration of Diwali in Fiji has a special historical significance. It’s a living testament to the lasting impact of the Indenture System or the Girmit era that started in 1879 until 1916 that brought to Fiji just over 60,000 Indian laborers.
In 1974 Diwali Festival was declared a Public Holiday by the Alliance Government led by late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara who was the first Prime Minister of Fiji after independence in 1970. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Diwali as a public holiday.
The Coalition Government led by Rt Hon Sitiveni Rabuka has added yet another milestone by declaring Girmit as a Public Holiday since 2023 recognising the historical significance of the Indenture system and contribution made by the Indians who made Fiji their home. It embodies a legacy of culture, compassion, endurance and forbearance.
Businesses thrive during this time of the year and one can expect bargain prices for almost every item for the household.
Members of the community should take advantage of the attractive discounts at the same time we ought to think of the underprivileged, the needy and the poor.
Let us uplift their spirits holistically and let there be everlasting light.
Dr RAM RAJU
President
Nadi Chamber of Commerce & Industry
