Hundreds of people gathered at the Suva Market today as the vendors celebrated Fiji’s 50 years of independence celebrations.
People from various ethnic groups were seen getting together and enjoying traditional items by vendors, wheelbarrow boys and the Vude Queen Laisa Vulakoro.
Suva Market Vendors Association President Sofia Talei says this is the first time the Association has celebrated Fiji Day together because they feel they had to do something special to mark the nation’s 50th year of independence.
She says singing of the national anthem is a very touching moment for her as it reminds Talei of her late grandfather who fought in World War 2 in Malaya.
Talei says her grandfather was present at Albert Park when Fiji gained independence 50 years ago and always came to Suva on Fiji Day to march for the soldiers who fought in the war.
She says being part of the celebration is a special feeling for her.
Meanwhile Suva’s longest serving vendor Balram Thapamagar says Fiji Day for him is all about being free and it was a very special occasion when Fiji gained independence.
Balram who has been a vendor for 45 years now says Fiji is the best place to live.
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