Hundreds of vendors at the Labasa Market gathered today to celebrate Diwali, showcasing a vibrant display of cultural unity and respect among the community. According to Vendors President Waisea Makulau, this celebration has become an annual tradition, particularly meaningful this year as many vendors are Hindu.
The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, supported the festivities by providing 1,000 food packs for vendors and prizes for winners of the Diwali competition. This gesture underscores the importance of the festival, which fosters a sense of togetherness among diverse communities.
Vendor Salome Komai noted her choice to wear a sari as a mark of respect for those celebrating the festival, reflecting how sharing traditions can strengthen community bonds. Diwali celebrations began yesterday and will continue until Thursday, with the national holiday to be observed tomorrow, marking a period filled with joy, lights, and shared meals.
The spirit of Diwali is echoed in other recent celebrations across Fiji, where communities, regardless of their backgrounds, come together to partake in the festivities. This year’s Diwali holds special significance, as it marks the 50th anniversary of the festival being designated a public holiday in Fiji, a change first made by the Alliance Government in 1974. The current Coalition Government has furthered this legacy by recognizing Girmit Day as a public holiday, honoring the contributions of the Indian community to Fijian society.
Celebrations in this multicultural nation are enhanced by a spirit of cooperation and understanding, reminding everyone of the importance of community, kindness, and support for one another during festive occasions. As lights fill homes and fireworks illuminate the nights, the hopes for unity and prosperity shine even brighter this Diwali, weaving closer ties among all Fijians.