As the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam Fiji approaches its centenary celebration, the organization continues to honor the vision and sacrifices of its founder, Sadhu Kuppuswamy. His contributions were pivotal to the survival and growth of the South Indian community in Fiji, even as many members today never had the opportunity to meet him.
One of the few who recalls the memories of this era is Sal Indran Reddy, a 77-year-old pujari (priest) at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Kovil in Nadi. Mr. Reddy speaks fondly of his childhood encounters with Sadhu Kuppuswamy, remembering attending his funeral alongside fellow students. Kuppuswamy arrived in Fiji in 1912 as an indentured laborer and founded the TISI Sangam in May 1926 to uplift and unite the South Indian community. He passed away in Nadi on August 2, 1956, after a short illness.
Reflecting on those formative years, Mr. Reddy shared personal anecdotes about his family. His father, Jaj Reddy, arrived in Fiji as a Girmitiya and married Waliamma Pillay, also from the same background. Growing up in a nurturing environment shaped by his grandmother, he would often visit the old Nadi temple, where he witnessed Sadhu Kuppuswamy’s daily activities.
“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 recalled. He vividly remembers lining up at his funeral and being a part of the rituals that marked Kuppuswamy’s final journey.
After leaving school early, Mr. Reddy embraced the family tradition of selling sweets and began his training in priesthood at the age of 15. His journey in the temple was deeply influenced by Krishna Iyer, the head priest at the time, who imparted essential knowledge about Hinduism and priesthood. Following Iyer’s passing in 1975, Mr. Reddy performed his final rites, demonstrating a deep respect for tradition and legacy.
Throughout the years, Mr. Reddy’s dedication to the community has remained unwavering. He married in 1984 and continued to contribute to the temple, serving in various roles, including assistant priest. He played significant parts during key moments in Fiji’s history, including the 1987 coup, illustrating how intertwined community events and personal histories can be.
Reflecting on Sadhu Kuppuswamy’s vision, Mr. Reddy emphasized the importance of education and unity within the Sangam framework. He stated, “Sangam is an organization for everyone… If you have a clean heart and mind, then everything is good.”
As Sangam Fiji prepares for its grand centennial celebration during the Easter weekend of 2026, the events will not only honor past achievements but also affirm the organization’s role in shaping Fiji’s multicultural identity. The celebration aims to inspire younger generations to uphold the values of unity, service, and education envisioned by Sadhu Kuppuswamy nearly a century ago. This moment will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and foster a clear pathway for the future, ensuring that the values of heritage and progress continue to thrive.