Fiji celebrated its 52nd Independence Day on 10 October, and Fijians all over the world marked the day in their own special ways.
Christchurch’s Fiji community gathered in hordes to celebrate Fiji Day on Saturday, 8 October, with a grand celebration organised by Jalsa Fiji Radio in collaboration with Christchurch’s newest ethnic grocery store Global Fresh which had its opening ceremony on the same day.
Global Fresh Fiji Day Celebrations had hundreds of people gathering since morning- some carrying Fijian flags, many wearing Fiji’s national colours of blue, white and red. There was a patriotic atmosphere with a spirit of brotherhood and unity.
It was a fun event that was conducted by the well-known RJ Krish and RJ Jibby, who brought their unique and witty style to the proceedings.
Celebration started with the flag-raising ceremony, where everybody sang Fiji’s national anthem. The moment was emotional for everyone present, who were far from their homeland but held a deep bond to Fiji.
Yashmin Chand, who was present with her family, told Indian Weekender, “It is great to connect with people on this very special day. Thanks to the organisers for bringing us closer and fostering the spirit of togetherness.”
Dhirend Prasad, President of Shree Sanatan Dharam Christchurch, was the Chief Guest at the event presiding over the flag-raising ceremony and cutting a cake to mark the day.
Other guests included Narayan Samy of Baba Kutti, Anshu Prasad of Sanatan Mahila Mandal, Gulshan Huk, Pushp Nandan, Sudhir, Suresh Mudliar of Christchurch Fiji Association and Rajneeta Chand, owner of Jalsa.
A strong lineup of performances had people enjoying the music and dance, particularly the Fijian Meke, lovely live songs by the Canterbury Bati team. Other performances included Soul Tribe, Shriya, Michelle Permal, Rajneel Narayan and Ashmita.
Vinesh Prakash of Jalsa Fiji Radio said, “It was a perfect sunny day for the community to come out and enjoy this day that binds us and brings us together. I wish to thank Global Fresh and all those who took time to come and celebrate the day with us.”
More than 500 people gathered at the event, which started at 10 am and went on till 5 pm. A bouncy castle kept the kids entertained while others could see enjoying the delicacies by Amma’s Kitchen and Fiji-style BBQ