The bean cart has become an indelible part of Fijian culture, evoking nostalgia and fond memories among generations of locals. Its history can be traced back to the indentured labor system, when traders began selling sweets from these carts, establishing businesses that would grow to become significant players in the local economy.
One of the most notable figures to emerge from this tradition is Parbhu Bhai Hira, who arrived in Fiji in the 1920s. His passion for cooking Indian sweets led him to set up a bean cart in Ba, a town rich with sugarcane farming and a vibrant Indian community. This innovative approach quickly gained popularity, attracting not only Indians but also members of the iTaukei community, showcasing the bean cart’s role in bridging cultural divides through cuisine.
As Hira’s success grew, he ultimately expanded from his humble beginnings to open several shops across Fiji. However, the legacy of the bean cart persists, with similar carts now found in towns and cities nationwide, offering an array of traditional sweets that have become part of the cultural fabric of Fiji.
Viraaj Lad, the director and CEO of Bhikabhai and Swits-n-Snax, shed light on the origins of the bean cart, which shares its concept with a traditional Indian “lari.” These carts were vital during the indentured period, allowing vendors to bring sweets closer to consumers near bus stands and other bustling areas.
The bhikabhai bean cart, particularly famous for its yellow barfi, jalebi, and gulab jamun, successfully catered to the local populace. Mr. Lad reminisced about the traditional pricing, where a selection of sweets could be purchased for just 10 cents, showcasing how accessible these treats were to the local community.
Additionally, sweets became an integral part of significant festivals and celebrations in the Indian community, such as Holi and Diwali, further solidifying their cultural significance. The culinary offerings have even transcended ethnic boundaries, as the indigenous community now embraces these traditional sweets, referring to them affectionately as “bean mithai.”
Today, businesses like Bhikabhai demonstrate a thriving legacy, with fourth-generation family members continuing their operations, ensuring that the tradition of the bean cart and its role in Fiji’s history endures.
The evolution of the bean cart serves as a testament to the resilience of Fijian culture, where food remains an essential connector of communities and an enduring feature of local history.
Overall, the story of the bean cart is a positive reflection of how entrepreneurial efforts, rooted in tradition, can lead to cultural exchange and unity in a diverse society. It is a reminder of the enduring power of food to foster connections and celebrate heritage within the community.
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