Maharaj: Fiji’s strength rooted in Girmit legacy

The contributions of the Girmityas serve as a reminder that Fiji’s strength lies in its unity and diversity, says Opposition Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj.

He said their story was one of survival and, more importantly, triumph.

“As we commemorate Girmit Day today, we honour the sweat, tears and unwavering hope of those original labourers,” Mr Maharaj said.

“Because of their sacrifice, Fiji evolved from a colonial outpost into a modern, thriving Pacific nation.”

He said Girmit was often a journey into the unknown, defined by back-breaking labour and separation from family.

Yet, he said, through their resilience, the Girmityas became the backbone of Fiji’s development.

“They were the primary architects of Fiji’s sugar industry, which remained the lifeblood of the national economy for more than a century,” he said.

“Beyond the cane fields, they cleared land, built roads and introduced diverse farming techniques that helped Fiji achieve food security and commercial growth.”

He said the Girmityas also brought with them a rich tapestry of language, food, music and traditions.

Mr Maharaj said this heritage blended with indigenous iTaukei culture to create the vibrant multicultural identity that defines Fiji today.

“Despite their own lack of formal schooling, the Girmityas prioritised the education of their children, establishing schools across the country that have produced generations of leaders, doctors and scholars,” he said.

“Thank you to the Girmityas, the true builders of our home.”