A direct descendant of indentured laborers in Fiji, 97-year-old Anirudh Kuver, is calling on young Fijians to honor the memory of those who contributed significantly to the country’s economic foundation. Kuver, a retired lawyer and former parliamentarian, is sharing his father’s story, who emigrated from Jaunpur, India, in 1905 under the indentured labor system, working for the Colonial Sugar Refining Company.
Kuver emphasizes the importance of education, a value instilled in him by his father, who insisted that education was vital to their future despite the financial struggles they faced. “He would say, rice can rot on the farm, sugarcane can rot on the farm, and it doesn’t matter. Nobody must miss school,” Kuver recalls. This dedication to education allowed Kuver and his siblings to pursue successful careers in various professional fields.
As he reflects on the history of indentured laborers—despite it being often categorized as semi-slavery—he highlights the dignity, resilience, and contribution of these individuals to Fiji’s society. These themes resonate strongly with the upcoming 2025 Girmit Day celebrations, happening from May 10th to 12th in Labasa under the theme “Preserving the Past, Envisioning the Future.”
These celebrations are not just about remembering the past; they also emphasize community unity and the strength found in shared heritage. Similar sentiments echoed by other Girmitya descendants, such as Ram Bahadur Singh and Shiu Kumari, underline the legacy of understanding and resilience brought by those who faced extreme hardships.
Government support for these commemorations is evident, with a budget of $200,000 allocated to ensure the events honor the Girmitya legacy effectively. Through cultural performances and discussions, these celebrations are set to foster pride, connection, and a hopeful outlook for future generations.
The enduring spirit of the Girmityas and their descendants continues to inspire contemporary Fijians as they reflect on their shared history. This narrative offers a positive spin on resilience and cultural pride, reinforcing the idea that the struggles of the past lay the groundwork for a unified and prosperous future.
Leave a comment