Girmit Day in Fiji

Girmit Day, also known as Girmit Remembrance Day, is an annual observance in Fiji that commemorates the arrival of Indian indentured laborers, colloquially referred to as the "Girmityas," to the islands. The term "Girmit" is a local distortion of the word "agreement," referring to the indenture contract signed by these laborers.

History:

• The first ship carrying Indian indentured workers arrived in Fiji on May 14, 1879.
• These workers were brought under the British colonial indenture system to work on sugarcane plantations.
• Over 60,000 Indians were transported to Fiji from 1879 until 1916 under this system.
• The indentured servitude was akin to a form of bonded labor with harsh working and living conditions.

Traditions:

On Girmit Day, Fijians of Indian descent and others:

• Hold cultural programs that include music, dance, and plays depicting the history of Girmityas.
• Organize seminars and discussions highlighting the historical significance and impact of the indenture system on Fijian society.
• Engage in acts of commemoration such as laying wreaths and paying homage at memorials dedicated to the Girmityas.

Activities:

People may also:

• Prepare and share traditional Indian food reflecting their cultural heritage.
• Visit historical sites relevant to the Girmit history, such as museums or old plantation sites.
• Engage in community service or charity work to honor the contributions and resilience of their ancestors.

The day serves as an important reminder of the struggles endured by early Indian settlers in Fiji and their subsequent contributions towards building Fiji's multicultural society. It is not a public holiday but is marked by various events within communities where descendants continue to uphold their ancestral legacy.