As the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam Fiji gears up for its upcoming centenary celebration, the organization is committed to honoring the legacy and sacrifices of its founder, Sadhu Kuppuswamy. His invaluable contributions played a crucial role in the survival and growth of the South Indian community in Fiji, despite the fact that many current members never had the chance to meet him.
One of the few individuals who recalls the early days is Sal Indran Reddy, a 77-year-old pujari (priest) at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Kovil in Nadi. Reddy fondly reminisces about his childhood interactions with Kuppuswamy, especially attending his funeral alongside classmates. Kuppuswamy arrived in Fiji in 1912 as an indentured laborer and established the TISI Sangam in May 1926, aimed at uplifting and unifying the South Indian community. He passed away on August 2, 1956, in Nadi after a brief illness.
In reflecting on his youth, Mr. Reddy shared personal stories about his family background. His father, Jaj Reddy, came to Fiji as a Girmitiya and married Waliamma Pillay, with both hailing from similar origins. Guided by his grandmother in a supportive environment, he often visited the old Nadi temple to observe Sadhu Kuppuswamy’s daily routines.
“I remember seeing him almost every day. I met him when he was alive. I attended Nadi Sangam School from classes one to eight. I was in class two when he passed away,” Mr. Reddy reminisced, recalling the profound experience of participating in Kuppuswamy’s funeral rituals.
Upon completing his education, Mr. Reddy embraced the family tradition of selling sweets and began his journey into priesthood at the age of 15, learning under the guidance of Krishna Iyer, the head priest. Following Iyer’s death in 1975, Reddy honored him by performing the final rites, reflecting his respect for tradition and his foundational legacy.
Mr. Reddy’s unwavering commitment to the community has been evident throughout his life. After marrying in 1984, he continued to serve the temple in multiple capacities, including as an assistant priest. His contributions have intersected with pivotal moments in Fiji’s history, such as the 1987 coup, highlighting how intertwined community events are with personal narratives.
While contemplating Sadhu Kuppuswamy’s vision, Mr. Reddy stressed the significance of education and unity within the Sangam framework, stating, “Sangam is an organization for everyone… If you have a clean heart and mind, then everything is good.”
As Sangam Fiji approaches its grand celebration during the Easter weekend in 2026, the events promise to honor past accomplishments while reaffirming the organization’s crucial role in shaping Fiji’s multicultural identity. This celebration aims to inspire younger generations to carry forward the values of unity, service, and education envisioned by Sadhu Kuppuswamy nearly a century ago. This milestone will not only reflect on the past but also celebrate the present while paving a clear pathway for the future, ensuring that the values of heritage and progress remain vibrant and influential.