Colour Of Holi Bind MGM Students In Unity

Different colors represent different ethnic groups and beliefs, but when they all come together they make the picture complete and that is the essence of Holi.

The message comes from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Primary School’s head teacher Nunia Vuniwaqa.

The school immersed in colors as their pre-Holi celebrations unfolded yesterday.

Ms Vuniwaqa said the school had a culture of celebrating all religious festivals and Holi was no exception.

“Celebrating Holi brings us together, it is a sign of unity,” Ms Vuniwaqa said.

“We let go of our differences, showing that there is peace and harmony within us because we are one in spirit and mind.

“My iTaukei children are also enjoying themselves. They are part and parcel of the celebration and at the same time they are learning a different culture.”

Ms Vuniwaqa added children were the medium through which racial harmony could be strengthened.

“With all the racial tension around the world, we have to start with our kids and instill in them values of racial harmony and peace,” she said.

“We have to make our children learn, understand and respect all religions and cultures and celebrating festivals like Easter, Holi or Eid, is a step in the right direction.”

Year Six student, Inoke Nailuma, said he enjoyed celebrating Holi and looked forward to it every year.

“We have so much fun playing with colours and it brings everyone together,” Inoke said.

Meanwhile Year 12 student, Shashank Krishna, said Holi sends a powerful message about multiculturalism.

“It is a very happy occasion for us, but Fiji being a multicultural country, it is actually much better celebrating Holi with everyone than just within the Hindu community,” he said.

Edited by Percy Kean

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