Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, has paid tribute to the Arya Samaj movement, describing its 150-year legacy as a powerful symbol of reform, moral values, and educational empowerment.
Speaking at the 2025 Arya Convention and the 108th Annual General Meeting held at DAV Girls College in Samabula, Prof. Prasad acknowledged the profound contributions of Arya Samaj to Fiji’s education sector and social fabric. He commended the movement’s pioneering role in establishing schools and even a university, which have collectively uplifted generations of Fijians.
“You may be small in number, but your reach, your impact, your influence has been great,” he said, reflecting on the Arya Samaj’s historic roots in 1875 India and its establishment in Fiji in 1918. He highlighted how the values of its founder, Maharshi Swami Dayanand Saraswati, remain deeply relevant—especially in advancing women’s rights, religious freedom, and equal access to education.
Prof. Prasad also addressed efforts in past years to marginalise vernacular languages, including Hindi, from the education system. “There was an attempt in the country to dilute—and perhaps even remove—the teaching of vernacular languages,” he said, adding that the government is now firmly committed to reversing that trend.
Highlighting the irony of the situation, he pointed out that:
“some of the individuals who were once part of the effort to dilute Hindi are now able to speak the language in Parliament and other public spaces.”
In recognition of the importance of language and cultural preservation, he announced that the government will provide additional funding to the University of Fiji for the establishment of a dedicated Centre for Hindi Studies. He reaffirmed the government’s broader commitment to restoring vernacular language education, strengthening health infrastructure, and addressing pressing issues such as drug abuse and youth empowerment.
Prof. Prasad also paid heartfelt tribute to the forefathers of the Indo-Fijian community and the founder of Arya Samaj, Maharshi Swami Dayanand Saraswati, acknowledging their sacrifices in keeping their religion, culture, and identity alive.
“We are the beneficiaries of their hard work.”
He concluded with a message of unity, encouraging greater collaboration between civil society, faith-based groups, and government to “improve the quality of life for all people.”
“This celebration is not just about looking back; it’s about shaping the future with the same courage, clarity, and commitment our forebears showed.”
Held under the theme “150 Years of Arya Samaj’s Contribution Towards Social Reform, Vedic Education, and Unity”, the convention drew hundreds of members and dignitaries from across the country to honour the movement’s enduring legacy in Fiji.
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