Our language, religion, culture and tradition are still alive through the platforms set by our ancestors despite encountering many challenges.
This was highlighted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad while officiating at the inauguration ceremony of the Vanua Levu Shree Dharam Sabha Diwali Mela at Subrail Park in Labasa.
Professor Prasad says despite the many challenges faced, the Girmitiyas were determined to maintain our religion, language, culture and tradition, and we should continue to safeguard this.
He says the history of Hinduism in Fiji is linked to the Girmitiyas who established Hindu religious groups known as Ramayan Mandalis in villages around the country.
The Deputy Prime Minister also commended the members and senior executives of the organisation for their initiative, highlighting that the foundation of the branch was to unite people who shared the same faith.
