THE Fiji School of Medicine (FSMed) celebrated Diwali early.
FSMed Indian Cultural and Religious Group staged the event last week to show other students from the region the importance of Diwali for Fijians of Indian descent.
"We want to show the students in Fiji and in the region that Diwali is important in the Fijian culture. We also would like to rekindle the flame of the Indian culture in the school," said FSMed student association president Priyant Chand.
He said the culture and traditions among students of Indian descent were fading.
"A group which was established recently aims at enriching the culture and tradition for the students, especially Fijians of Indian descent who are beginning to drift away," he said.
Mr Chand said the Christian Fellowship at the school was active and that was a reason for Fijian students of Indian descent to have a religious and cultural group.
"We had an early celebration so that students can have ample time to prepare for their exam as Diwali day falls on the week of the exams," Mr Chand said.
Indian Cultural Centre director Dr Kamal Kishor Mishra said it was always a joyous moment to join youths in a celebration of culture and tradition.
"The FSMed has done a marvellous work in diversifying Indian culture," he said.
The evening featured Diwali card-making and sari wearing competitions and dances. Diwali will be celebrated on November 13.