Diwali a National Festival: Akbar
Diwali in Fiji is not limited to a particular community, but is a national festival marked by a Public holiday.
The Minister Education, Heritage and Arts (MEHA) Rosy Akbar said the annual event marked a new year which should help individuals reflect on their past achievements.
She noted that the annual festival of lights celebration allowed the ministry family a good opportunity to get together.
“We can see where improvements are needed and start anew by leaving behind attitudes that will hinder the successful realisation of our targets on a period, departmental and ministerial level” Minister Akbar said.
“This event also reminds us of the struggles and sacrifices of our indentured forefathers and we need to acknowledge their role in preserving our culture and heritage through difficult times.”
She reminded members of the public to keep their health in mind and eat responsibly and when buying firecrackers, think of their budget and being stewards of the environment. “Supervise your children using firecrackers because it is our civic duty to ensure that mishaps and accidents due to any form of negligence on our part do not dampen the celebration spirit. “Think of those people who are not celebrating because their loved ones are no longer with them or are in hospitals throughout the nation,” Ms Akbar added. Amidst the hectic schedules they do not get opportunities to cherish momentous occasions like this where they share the feelings of goodness, unity, happiness and joy as a Ministry.
This was said by the Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Rosy Akbar who was the chief guest during the Diwali celebration held at Waisomo House in Suva yesterday.
“In Fiji, Diwali is even more special, we are unique in our diversity and each and every one of us will be fully committed regardless of race or religion,” she said. Ms Akbar said Diwali in Fiji was not limited to a particular community but is a national festival marked by a Public holiday.
This event also reminds us of the struggles and sacrifices of our indentured forefathers and we need to acknowledge their role...
Rosy Akbar
Minister for education, Heritage and Arts