As families across Fiji celebrate Raksha Bandhan, a festival symbolising the bond between brothers and sisters, Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre Coordinator Shamima Ali is urging people to reflect deeply on the true meaning of the occasion — protection, empowerment, and respect.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Ali highlighted that the festival is traditionally about brothers pledging to protect their sisters and support their dreams.
She says that in most cases, brothers do fulfill their roles — they protect and empower their sisters.
However, she also drew attention to the darker realities faced by many women and girls in Fiji, noting that the ideals of the festival are not always upheld.
Ali says statistics show that about 96 percent of sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, and of that, 76 percent are relatives — including brothers, half-brothers, and stepbrothers.
She emphasized that such violations are in direct contradiction to the spirit of the festival.
Ali also expressed concern over a growing trend in domestic violence cases, where brothers are encouraging their sisters to return to abusive partners.
She is calling on people to honour the festival in its truest form.
Ali says that if you are celebrating this day, do so genuinely and realistically — respect the relationship and support your sisters not just in words, but in action.
She says we should let this day be a reminder of our responsibilities to each other — to protect, uplift, and empower.
Today marks the final day of Raksha Bandhan celebrations.
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