The story of Ilisavani Jegesa, a villager of Naivilaca in Noco, Rewa, is one that should not be forgotten.

He was the first man who ran to get help when indentured labourers were brought to Fiji from India.

They were onboard the ill-fated Syria when she ran aground on the Nasilai Reef on the night of May 11, 1884.

As the nation celebrates the newly-marked Girmit Day, Joeli Mateka told the story of how hisgreat-great-grandfather, Mr Jegesa, encountered the Girmitiyas who would leave an indelible mark in Fiji’s history.

Below is the account of the late Mr Jegesa through his descendent, Mr Mateka.

“It was a normal morning on May 12, 1884 for my great great grandfather. He was on a fishing trip at sea when he heard a commotion of a different kind of language. When he reached the shoreline, he saw different people with a different style, look, and language.

“When he approached them, they ran towards him, happy that they finally saw a local. My great-great-grandfather was frightened and ran away. But, he caught his breath, gathered his composure and realised he had go back.

“The indentured labourers were happy when they saw him. He didn’t understand what they were saying, but they pointed to the sea, the boats, and the shore.

“Not everyone made it to shore. Some were taken by the strong current. We buried the dead by the shore. One race of people burying another race of people, never related by blood or appearance. But my great grandfather did the honourable thing, and the elders of our village helped to bury the dead.”

Mr Mateka expressed his gratitude to his great-grandfather and his family for their noble act.

“We are seeing the benefits of the good thing our great-great-grandfather and villagers did. We are forever indebted to them. They showed us how we should treat people no matter if we know them or not.”

“The story of the kindness shown to the indentured labourers will pass from one generation to another.”

Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj