Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji

05/14/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/15/2022 16:24

PM BAINIMARAMA OFFICIATES AT THE 120TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAM LEELA-(14-05-2022)

Hundreds of people from all walks of life converged at Vashist Muni College grounds in Navua last night to celebrate the 120th anniversary of Ram Leela and the 143 years since the arrival of the Girmitya in Fiji.

Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama officiated at the event and said we are especially lucky, as we can celebrate a moment in history.

"I'm glad to see we are joined by musicians, dancers and performers, hailing from all over Fiji who can continue bringing that history to life this evening in a way that words never could.

"Tonight is part of the story that began at the shores of Levuka in 1897. For generations, the traditions brought by the girmitya to Fiji have added layers to our cultural fabric. Not only in the form of celebrations, but by strengthening the shared values that matter for every Fijian. This festival is the perfect example."

The Prime Minister emphasised the significance of the event, saying "Everyone should know this story. It should have been taught in our schools from the day we gained our independence. It is a part of our history, and we must know our history-not just the triumphs and the glories, but the injustices and the blemishes, " he said.

"Tonight we are here to celebrate and commemorate a sliver of the girmitya legacy, a legacy which is still being written by the descendants of those first brought from British India.

"I applaud you all for carrying this tradition forward across decades and generations. Thank you for so openly sharing your joy with your fellow Fijians."

Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama

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