An iTaukei teacher, Mereani Jacinta, has become a social media sensation following her captivating rendition of the Bollywood song “London Thumakda” during a Holi celebration at Nehru Memorial Primary School. The performance, which took place last Friday, delighted students and teachers alike, with the video rapidly going viral, accumulating over 20,000 views, 1,000 shares, and 2,000 comments.
The Holi festival, symbolizing love, vibrancy, and the onset of spring, was joyously celebrated at the multicultural institution. Jacinta, a Year Two teacher and member of a local band called Sector Four, stepped outside her usual comfort zone of performing in iTaukei and English after receiving an invitation to sing a Hindi song. Motivated by her brothers, who encouraged her to try her hand at Hindi music, she was thrilled to engage the children in a lively sing-along that characterized the joyous occasion.
Abdul Faiyaz commented on the significance of Jacinta’s effort, highlighting the necessity of cultural respect and inclusion in education. “We need more teachers like Jacinta, one love,” he stated, underscoring the important role educators play in fostering an inclusive cultural environment.
The Holi celebration where Jacinta performed aligns with a growing trend across Fiji, where schools such as DAV Girls College are using the festival as a vehicle for promoting cultural collaboration. These events not only highlight the importance of community engagement but also signify a broader commitment to celebrating diverse cultural identities.
Jacinta’s joyful performance reflects the spirit of Holi, showcasing how music and cultural exchange can foster unity and strengthen communal bonds. These celebrations serve as a reminder that by embracing diversity, communities can nurture a harmonious environment that thrives on inclusivity and shared joy. The heartwarming responses to the Holi festivities illuminate the positive potential of cultural celebrations in enhancing connections among different cultural groups.
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