The world's first-ever World Girmitiya Games will be held in Kolkata, India, from 3rd to 5th January 2027, providing an opportunity for Fiji and other Girmitiya countries to celebrate their shared history and cultural connections.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Suneet Mehta announced this during the India Fiji Friendship Forum's Diwali celebration at Khatri Hall in Suva yesterday.
Mehta says the Games will celebrate the shared history and enduring bonds of Girmitiya countries, including Fiji, while providing a platform for sporting talent, cultural connection and international friendship.
He says Fiji's participation is especially meaningful because of the country's deep historical connection with the Girmitiya legacy.
Mehta says preparations are underway for selection trials in Fiji, with athletics and football trials scheduled for 1st November at the HFC Stadium.
Swimming trials will be held on 7th November at Aqua Point.
He has encouraged all eligible athletes to participate in the trials, saying the Games will provide an opportunity to demonstrate their sporting talent, represent Fiji on an international platform and strengthen the relationship between India and Fiji.
Mehta says preserving shared heritage and strengthening people-to-people connections remain important parts of the relationship between the two countries.
