A powerful new documentary, GIRMIT: The Fields of Sadness, brings to light the untold stories of the Indian indentured labourers —known as girmitiyas — who were brought to Fiji under British colonial rule.
It is based on the book Tears in Paradise by former Ba Town Council Town Clerk, Rajendra Prasad.
The documentary is more than a historical account; it is a powerful journey into a forgotten chapter that has shaped the lives of millions in the Indian diaspora.
It discloses the long-silenced stories of the girmitiyas — stories buried for generations under colonial narratives.
The documentary honours the resilience of the girmitiyas in Fiji, giving voice to their pain and legacy — a history that continues to shape their descendants today.
This film is a testament to the Girmitiyas’ strength, a tribute to their sacrifices, and a call to acknowledge the injustices they endured.
It aims to spark a broader conversation about the lasting impacts of colonialism and the importance of remembering and honouring all facets of our shared history.
The film will screen in cinemas from tomorrow until 24th May.
Details of the screenings are as follows:
Damodar City – Suva 18th May: Public Screening – 2:30 PM, Cinema 3
Damodar Cinemas – Labasa 22nd May: Public Screening – 7:30 PM, Premium 23rd May: Public Screening – 8:30 PM, Standard
Village 4 – Lautoka 23rd May: Public Screening – 8.00 PM, Cinema 1 24th May: Public Screening – 8:00 PM, Cinema 1
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