A new animated film is helping teach children about the history of Indian indentured labourers in Fiji and the legacy they left behind.
The English-language animation titled "The Story of Girmit" has been released by Girmit researcher Kirti Sharma to help younger generations understand how Indian labourers came to Fiji and the struggles they faced under the Girmit system.
The animation follows a storytelling format where a grandmother explains to children how workers from India were brought to Fiji and other British colonies under the indenture system after slavery ended in the British Empire.
It explains that many labourers signed agreements they could not properly read or pronounce, which led to the word “agreement” becoming known as “Girmit”, while the labourers became known as Girmitiyas.
The video also highlights the long and difficult sea journey to Fiji, the harsh plantation conditions, poor living environments and the resilience of the Girmitiyas who preserved their culture through songs, prayers, stories and festivals.
It reminds children that the story of the Girmitiyas remains an important part of identity, history and nation-building for descendants living across the world today.
The animation is also available in Hindi.
Sharma says the new animation follows the release of her girmit story video series which began during the COVID-19 lockdown in July 2021.
She says what started as a single video later grew into a 14-episode docu-drama series over the course of one year because of strong public encouragement and interest.
She acknowledged the support of family members and friends who contributed through acting, singing, voice acting, reviewing videos, connecting her with people who could help and offering encouragement without expecting anything in return.
Sharma says the journey became an opportunity for her to contribute in her own way towards preserving and sharing Girmit history through stories and other related videos.
She says the project allowed her to connect with people promoting Girmit history and legacy through art, exhibitions, research, podcasts and other initiatives.
She adds that despite releasing only one or two videos each year since completing the 14-episode series in May 2022, the continued encouragement and support from viewers has meant a great deal to her.
Meanwhile, Girmit Day will be commemorated from 10am tomorrow at the Fiji Museum where Girmit descendants will be honoured, the 147th Girmit Commemoration Postal Stamps will be unveiled and the 50 Years Girmit Commemoration Time Capsule will be sealed. There will also be cultural performances and a tour of the museum.
