Priestess Backs Girmit Record Digitalisation

Bulileka Durga Mata Mandir’s purochita (female priest) and caretaker, Leela Wati, are grateful that the record of approximately 60,537 indentured labourers, known as Girmitiyas, will be digitised.

Between 1879 and 1916, Girmitiyas were transported from India to Fiji to work on sugar plantations.

Ms Wati, said the initiative to be undertaken by the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs was commended.

The digitalisation process was announced by the line minister, Charan Jeath Singh last week in Labasa.

“Once organised, this valuable historical data will be transferred to a digital database, making it easily accessible to individuals seeking to reconnect with their heritage,” Mr Singh said.

The Indo-Fijian population in this country make up close to 30 per cent of the total population.

Mr Singh said the ministry would establish a consultative committee to provide strategic guidance.

“We value our forefathers for their sacrifices and contribution to the nation and for giving us a place to call home,” Ms Wati said.

She encouraged the young generation of Indo-Fijians to value their forefathers and learn their history and contribution.

Ms Wati, disclosed that her grandmother was a Girmitiya.

Her grandmother and Ms Wati’s family lived at Naleba, Labasa during those early days.

“My grandmother who resided at Naleba, Labasa, was 108 years old when she passed away,” she said.

“I always dream to go to India and connect with my roots.

“I hope more people getting information from the digital database will connect and travel to India to pay tribute to the land their forefathers came from.”

The National Girmit Day Celebration will be held at Subrail Park in Labasa this year from May 10 to 12.

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