THE NAMASTE PACIFIKA
OUR CULTURE DEFINES US: BHATNAGAR
Culture and tradition are what we all know as the identity of a nation and its people. This statement was made by the Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Veena Bhatnagar during the Namaste Pacifika- a festival of India Celebration at the Kshatriya Hall in Suva on Friday night.
More than 300 people attended the function which showcased the Dandiya dance originated from Gujarat in India. Ms Bhatnagar said that people who were not in touch with their culture were just like trees with no roots.
She said our cultures defined us and sharing it with other cultures was going to enable strengthening, diversity and peace.
“It is very important that we know it and embrace it fully,” she said.
“I am happy to note that Namaste Pacifika Festival has enchanted and mesmerised people of Fiji, particularly of Indian origin like never before.
“Indian Culture with all its colour and fragrance from so many parts of India is reaching to all the cities of Fiji and to all sections of the society.
“We know well how diverse the Indian culture is, and thanks to the concerted efforts of the Indian High Commission, we are all getting the opportunity to experience a piece of the beautiful, authentic culture first hand,” Ms Bhatnagar said. She said the relation between India and Fiji was running into a golden period. The bilateral co-operation between both the countries in many important areas reflects the close relationship between the two countries.
Ms Bhatnagar said the support, that the Government of India through the Indian High Commission has consistently provided us, was remarkable and they looked forward to cementing the relationship in doing more great things for our people.
“No matter where we live or what we are called, we execute the human values taught by our heritage in crafting a society that treats each one with respect and integrity, with the vision of betterment for all people equally,” Ms Bhatnagar said.
Namaste Pacifika is a celebration of the rich and diverse Indian Culture in its full glory; its art, music, folklore and mythology.
This festival had the involvement of 12 best groups with 125 artists and performing over 55 events in seven Pacific Island Countries.