A new seven-minute animated film titled “The Girmit Experience” has been launched, showcasing the resilience and untold narratives of Girmit descendants through modern digital storytelling. The film, produced by the UK-based arts company Nutkhut under the direction of Indo-Fijian British filmmaker Ajay Chhabra, artfully combines history, art, and virtual reality to depict the journey of the 60,000 Indians brought to Fiji between 1879 and 1916.
Chhabra emphasizes that the project draws inspiration from family archives, museum artifacts, and oral histories, aiming to connect generations and vividly animate Girmit stories. He shared his vision, stating, “We are all custodians, and the gift of being a custodian comes with great responsibility. We talked about sharing expertise and knowledge across art, heritage, education, and digital innovation through talks, performances, exhibitions, and community engagement.”
This project is part of a collaborative effort between Nutkhut and the Fiji Museum aimed at preserving Indo-Fijian heritage through exhibitions and educational programs. Notably, the film will also be presented as a 360-degree virtual reality installation, included in a broader initiative that incorporates a graphic novel and a permanent digital exhibition in Fiji and the UK.
The endeavor aligns with other ongoing efforts in Fiji to commemorate and acknowledge the legacy of the Girmitiyas. Initiatives such as the recent digitization of the Girmit database by the Fijian government, aiming to preserve historical records of indentured laborers while enhancing access for future generations, speak to the revitalized commitment to honoring this significant chapter in Fiji’s history.
The upcoming Girmit Day celebrations, themed “Preserving the Past and Envisioning the Future,” are anticipated to provide platforms for cultural exchange and remembrance. This reflects a deepening understanding of the Girmit narrative, promoting a shared identity and unity among Fiji’s diverse populations. Such initiatives underscore the importance of recognizing and preserving the stories and contributions of the Girmitiyas, fostering hope for a brighter and more inclusive future.