An 88-year-old woman from Wainikoro, Labasa, Kamla Wati, has spoken out about her experiences ahead of the upcoming 146th Girmit Commemoration. As a descendant of the Girmityas, she provides a valuable perspective on how the legacy of these Indian indentured laborers, who faced immense hardship, has shaped the community today.
Wati reflects on her childhood in Nadi, where her family endured strict daily routines. Her father transitioned from being a tailor to a farmer in order to sustain the family. “We worked from morning until evening, no complaints, just survival,” she shares, emphasizing the relentless dedication women demonstrated at that time. They not only handled household responsibilities but also worked the fields, illustrating the dual burdens that many women carried.
In her recounting, Wati highlights the importance of animals, such as horses and bulls, which were integral to their daily life and treated with care. This connection to animals and the land underscores the resilience and resourcefulness of the Girmityas and their descendants.
The upcoming Girmit Day celebration, scheduled from May 10th to 12th in Labasa, will honor these historical contributions and the ongoing cultural journey of the Girmityas. With a budget of $200,000 allocated by the government, the event aims not only to reflect on the past struggles faced by the Girmityas but also to reinforce community bonds and promote unity among Fiji’s diverse cultures.
These celebrations create a hopeful narrative for the future, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and the strength found in sharing stories such as Wati’s, which help to foster understanding and pride across communities. The event signifies a commitment to remembering the past while envisioning a harmonious future for all Fijians.
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