Fiji’s political and community leaders have used Holi celebrations to call for unity and support for flood-affected families, urging citizens to mark the festival with compassion as parts of the country recover from recent severe weather.
In a message to the nation, Fiji’s Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Charan Jeath Singh, said the Hindu festival of colours was a reminder of the country’s shared values and multicultural identity.
Holi, traditionally observed by Hindus to mark the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring, is widely celebrated across Fiji’s Indo-Fijian community and increasingly embraced as a national cultural event.
Singh said the festival symbolised harmony and togetherness, bringing people of different backgrounds together in a display of colour and celebration. He noted that the occasion reflected the “inclusive spirit” of Fiji’s diverse society.
“During Holi, we set aside our differences and come together as one people — celebrating with our families, neighbours, and the wider community.”
However, he acknowledged that this year’s celebrations come as some communities grapple with the aftermath of severe flooding, which has damaged homes, crops and livelihoods in parts of the country. For many families, he said, the focus would be on rebuilding rather than festivity.
In that context, Singh urged Fijians to express the deeper meaning of Holi through practical support for those affected. Acts of generosity and solidarity, he said, could help restore hope to communities facing hardship.
“In this spirit, I urge all Fijians to embrace the true essence of Holi — by extending compassion, generosity, and tangible support to those in need.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Prof. Biman Prasad, leader of the National Federation Party and former Deputy Prime Minister.
In a separate Holi message, Prasad described the festival as a time for renewal, forgiveness and strengthening social bonds, particularly in a diverse nation.
“Holi is a time to come together with open hearts, to strengthen bonds of friendship, and to renew our commitment to unity and understanding. In a diverse nation like ours, these values are especially important as we work collectively towards a peaceful, prosperous, and united Fiji.”
He said the values associated with Holi — unity, understanding and goodwill — were vital as Fiji works towards social cohesion and economic stability. Prasad extended his wishes to Fijians at home and to the Indo-Fijian diaspora abroad, expressing hope that the festival would bring peace and optimism.
Holi is observed annually by communities across Fiji with traditional prayers, music and the throwing of coloured powder. While celebrations are typically marked by public gatherings and festivities, this year’s messages from national figures have underscored themes of resilience and collective responsibility in the face of natural disaster.
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