Diwali is an important occasion for Fiji to celebrate its cultural and religious diversity while strengthening unity, mutual respect and understanding among communities.
Speaking at the 2026 National Diwali celebrations this morning, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says this year's theme, “Festival of Lights, Strengthening Unity Through Diversity”, carries an important message for the nation.
He says Fiji's diversity is a source of strength and the country's future depends on people's ability to respect one another and work together.
Rabuka says Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance, while reminding people to uphold truth, righteousness, compassion and hope.
He also highlighted the historical significance of Diwali in Fiji, saying the first Indian indentured labourers who arrived in the country in 1879 brought with them their faith, languages, customs and traditions.
He says despite the hardships and injustices of indenture, they demonstrated courage and resilience by preserving their culture and religious traditions for succeeding generations.
Rabuka says Diwali was among those cherished traditions and has over time become an important part of Fiji's cultural heritage, now celebrated and respected by Fijians from different backgrounds.
He says the contributions of the descendants of the indentured labourers to agriculture, commerce, education, public service and national development must also be recognised.
The Prime Minister says national unity must go beyond celebrations and public declarations and must be reflected in how people treat one another and respond to differences within their communities.
He has called on Fijians to reject discrimination, prejudice, religious intolerance and hatred, while remaining vigilant against misinformation and divisive messages that undermine trust.
Rabuka also reminds people that the true spirit of Diwali is not measured by decorations or the scale of celebrations, but by the kindness, compassion and opportunities they extend to others.
He encourages Fijians to remember those facing hardship, loneliness and uncertainty during the festive season.
The Prime Minister extended his Diwali wishes to all those celebrating, saying he hopes the festival brings peace to every home, happiness to every family and renewed hope throughout the nation.
Meanwhile, Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage, Arts and Health Charan Jeath Singh says Diwali is an opportunity for Fijians to strengthen unity, respect and understanding among different communities.
Singh says celebrating festivals such as Diwali, Eid and Christmas together demonstrates that respecting other people's cultures does not diminish one's own identity, but instead strengthens the country's shared sense of belonging.
He encouraged Fijians to use Diwali as a time to promote peace in families, understanding in communities and unity, stability and prosperity for the nation.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Sumeet Mehta says Diwali is a reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance and respect among people of different cultures and faiths.
Mehta says the theme of this year's celebration, is particularly meaningful in Fiji, enriched by many cultures, languages, faiths and traditions.
He says Diwali is no longer confined to one community or faith in Fiji, but has become a national celebration embraced by people from different backgrounds.
He says the most important light during Diwali is not the one placed outside homes, but the light people nurture within themselves through understanding, compassion, tolerance and respect for one another.
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Diwali
Diwali is a reminder of Fiji’s strength in diversity and unity - Rabuka
