Thousands of devotees gathered at Baba Ragho Vishnu Kuti Temple in Sawani, Nausori, to mark the 125th anniversary celebrations of one of Fiji’s historic Sanatan religious sites, celebrating the enduring legacy of Hindu faith, culture and community service.
The commemorations were organised by the High Commission of India and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in collaboration with the Shree Sanatan Ramayan Mandali.
The celebrations featured a traditional Ram Leela performance by the Shree Satsang Ramayan Mandali of Lami, honouring the teachings of the Ramayana and the cultural connections that continue to strengthen ties between India and Fiji.
Baba Ragho Vishnu Kuti has remained a significant centre of worship and heritage preservation since the arrival of Sant Shree Baba Ragho Dass Ji during the Girmit era.
Baba Ragho Dass Ji arrived in Sawani on 28 March 1901 and dedicated his life to spiritual service, promoting Sanatan Dharma and supporting the Hindu community in Fiji. His samadhi remains preserved at the Kuti, which continues to attract devotees.
Speaking at the event, Fiji’s Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs Pio Tikoduadua said the temple’s 125-year history demonstrated that faith could unite communities and strengthen understanding rather than create division.
Tikoduadua said national security was built not only through defence institutions but also through trust, inclusion and strong communities.
“Every citizen contributes to Fiji’s security by standing against fear, division and prejudice, and by supporting one another,” he said.
He urged Fijians to leave future generations a stronger, fairer and more united nation, saying the values upheld by the pioneers who established the temple 125 years ago continue to shape Fiji today.
Associate Professor Shaikendra Singh said the celebrations reflected the deep roots and contribution of the Indo-Fijian community to Fiji’s national story.
“The recent Ram Leela commemorations at the 125-year-old Baba Ragho Vishnu Kuti Temple in Sawani were a powerful reminder of the enduring Indo-Fijian presence in Fiji, our deep roots, and our contribution to the nation,” he said.
He noted that social cohesion and inclusion remained central to Fiji’s future, highlighting the importance of policies that recognise the contribution of all communities.
The celebrations also coincided with wider discussions about Fiji’s national identity, security and diaspora engagement, including the implementation of recommendations from Fiji’s National Security and Defence Review and the development of a national diaspora policy.
The 125th anniversary celebrations, attended by at least 2000 people, served as a reminder of the role of cultural and religious institutions in preserving heritage while promoting unity, respect and cooperation among Fiji’s diverse communities.
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