A newly launched seven-minute animated film, titled “The Girmit Experience,” is making waves by highlighting the resilience and untold stories of Girmit descendants through innovative digital storytelling. The film, produced by the UK-based arts company Nutkhut and directed by Indo-Fijian British filmmaker Ajay Chhabra, creatively fuses history, art, and virtual reality to explore the journey of the 60,000 Indians who were brought to Fiji between 1879 and 1916.
Chhabra emphasizes that the project is inspired by family archives, museum artifacts, and oral histories, with a focus on connecting generations and vividly bringing Girmit stories to life. He expressed his vision, saying, “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 film is part of a broader collaborative effort between Nutkhut and the Fiji Museum aimed at preserving Indo-Fijian heritage through a variety of exhibitions and educational programs. In an exciting addition, the film will also be showcased as a 360-degree virtual reality installation, embedded in a larger initiative that includes a graphic novel and a permanent digital exhibition in both Fiji and the UK.
This endeavor coincides with ongoing efforts in Fiji to celebrate and honor the legacy of the Girmitiyas. Recent initiatives, such as the digitization of the Girmit database spearheaded by the Fijian government, focus on preserving the historical records of indentured laborers and ensuring greater access for future generations. These actions demonstrate a renewed commitment to acknowledge this important chapter in Fiji’s history.
As Girmit Day celebrations approach, themed “Preserving the Past and Envisioning the Future,” the event is expected to provide a platform for cultural exchange and collective remembrance. This reflects a growing appreciation for the Girmit narrative and promotes a sense of shared identity and unity among the diverse populations of Fiji. The initiatives highlight the crucial importance of recognizing and preserving the stories and contributions of the Girmitiyas, instilling hope for a more inclusive and brighter future.