The overcast skies over the Capital City failed to deter the spirits of hundreds of Fijians who marched through the streets of Suva as part of the Girmit Day celebrations.
Led by the Fiji Police Band the Girmit Day march saw various groups from all around the country display attire, artifacts and remnants of the girmit era.
The procession started from the Suva Flea Market and made its way to Albert Park, where Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and guest of honour, Indian Minister of State of External Affairs Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh greeted the crowd.
Many Fijians lined the streets with their Fiji and Indian flags to show their appreciation for the efforts of the grimitya.
Meresini Bale one of the many Fijians that lined the streets said it was a great sight to see and she was glad that the efforts and history of the girmitya was being celebrated and recognised at a national level.
“This is a very historic moment. I am glad I got the opportunity to witness the procession,” she said.
“It was nice to see the attire and artifacts from the girimit era. It reminds us of the rich history of our nation.”
The best float procession was awarded to Suva City Council while the Suvavou Village and Fiji Sugar Cooperation scooped the runner-up prizes.
