The Girmit story isn’t a story confined to one community in Fiji, it is a story that belongs to all of us.
This was highlighted by the National Secretary of the Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha Fiji Pandit Krishneel Tiwari for Girmit Day.
Tiwari says the story of the Girmitiyas is one of immense struggle and suffering, but it is also one of the most inspirational chapters of Fiji's history.
He says through sheer determination and hard work, the Girmitiyas eventually triumphed – a triumph of the human spirit in the face of terrible adversity.
Tiwari adds as their fortunes changed over the years, the importance of education became paramount.
He says as they set up schools all over the country, they became important partners with our other communities in gradually laying the foundations of modern Fiji.
Tiwari also says not only did the Girmitiyas lay the foundation for much of what we know in Fiji today, they set an example of endurance, teamwork and sacrifice in the service of our nation.
He says they appreciate the commitment shown by the coalition government and thanked Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka for the Girmit Day Public Holiday.
