Fiji’s Sacred Spaces: Unity Amidst Vandalism Controversy

Members of the Vunicuicui Santan Dharam Shiv Mandir, situated near Labasa, have spoken out against allegations of racism connected to a recent desecration incident at the temple. Jiten Maharaj, a member of the temple, emphasized the importance of maintaining unity among different faiths and cultural groups, particularly in Fiji’s multiracial settings.

This statement came in light of social media claims suggesting that the Hindu community no longer feels safe in Fiji following the desecration of the sacred Ramayana, where pages were reportedly torn out. Maharaj urged community members to remain calm and refrain from blaming any particular race, emphasizing that the investigation is currently under the jurisdiction of the police. He believes that focusing on spirituality and communal prayers would be a more constructive way to address the issue.

Maharaj noted that while the Ramayana was specifically targeted, other items within the temple remained untouched, which he views as an indication that the act might not be racially motivated. Another temple member, Davendra Prakash, echoed these sentiments, urging the community to avoid assigning blame and to leave the matter to divine judgment.

The Fiji Police Force is now actively investigating the incident, responding to previous calls from community leaders for protective measures at places of worship due to a worrying trend of vandalism in Fiji. Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad has also condemned the act of desecration, labeling it as a serious crime and an assault on the principles of tolerance and respect that are crucial to Fiji’s multi-ethnic society.

This incident reflects a growing concern surrounding the safety and respect of various faiths in the region. However, amidst these troubling occurrences, there remains a hopeful notion that such incidents can foster dialogue and build a stronger collective commitment to interfaith understanding and respect in Fiji. Community leaders are advocating for ongoing discussions about the values that unite them, striving for a more harmonious coexistence among diverse religious backgrounds.