“Preserving Heritage: A 93-Year-Old’s Call to Share Girmitiya Stories”

A 93-year-old woman from Namara, Labasa, Yashoda Ram, is advocating for greater intergenerational sharing of stories as Fiji prepares to commemorate the Girmit. The importance of oral histories, particularly those of the Girmitiyas, has deeply influenced Ram, who shares memories passed down from her parents and elders, including tales of her grandfather who emigrated to Fiji from Lucknow, India.

While she never met her grandfather, Ram reflects on how the values and experiences related by her family have profoundly shaped her understanding of identity, resilience, and sacrifice. Married at just 16, she faced considerable challenges while raising her family amidst strong cultural traditions, stating, “We didn’t have much, but we worked the land and kept our stories alive.”

With recorded history largely undocumented, Ram emphasizes that preserving the legacy of the Girmitiyas now depends on families actively sharing and listening to these stories. She has taken it upon herself to share these recollections with her children and grandchildren, motivating them to recognize the contributions and struggles of their ancestors.

This year, the Girmit Day celebrations will be held in Labasa from May 10th to 12th, under the theme “Preserving the Past and Envisioning the Future.” This theme resonates across various narratives shared by Fijians of Indian descent, celebrating resilience while hoping to foster community unity as they honor their cultural heritage.

Earlier accounts from other community members, including individuals like Ram Bahadur Singh and Shiu Kumari, highlight the collective memory of hardship and endurance experienced by their families during the Girmit era. These stories not only serve as reminders of the past but inspire a commitment to cultural preservation and community unity moving forward, emphasizing the shared heritage of all Fijians.

Overall, the vibrant tapestry of memories and traditions associated with the Girmitiyas cultivates hope for a stronger, more unified future, showcasing the enduring legacy of their struggles and contributions.