Elders honoured for preserving Sanatan culture and traditions

The Vanua Levu Shree Sanatan Dharm Sabha Fiji 2026 convention celebrated cultural preservation while honouring elders for decades of community service.

National Federation Party (NFP) leader Biman Prasad opened the third Annual Convention of the Vanua Levu Shree Sanatan Dharm Sabha Fiji 2026 at Muanidevo Sanatan Primary School, Dreketi, yesterday.

The convention brought communities together to recognise the contribution of elders who have helped preserve religious traditions, language, culture and community values over many years.

"I was honoured to return to Muanidevo Sanatan Primary School, where I received my formative and primary school education," Mr Prasad said.

Mr Prasad presented medals to several elders in recognition of their contribution to the cultural, religious and linguistic life of communities in Muanidevo, Nacula, Malawai, Naibulu and the wider Dreketi area.

Devina Nand travelled from Labasa to attend the convention and said she enjoyed the cultural experience. Ms Nand said several mandalis participated in the convention, with women presenting bhajans.

“It was a memorable experience, and it was great to meet older women with so much talent,” she said.

Mr Prasad said the elders had consistently given their time and energy to support religious activities, community events, education and the preservation of language and culture.

Their contribution, he said, had helped maintain traditions, values and a strong sense of community among people in the area.

He said the event was also an opportunity to reconnect with communities that had played an important role in his life.

The convention highlighted the importance of passing cultural and religious traditions to future generations while recognising those who have worked to preserve them.

Mr Prasad thanked the Vanua Levu Shree Sanatan Dharm Sabha Fiji, organisers, school management, teachers and community members for contributing to the convention.