Fiji and India have reaffirmed their longstanding linguistic, historical and cultural connections with the launch of Hindi Pakhwada 2026 in Suva.
The fortnight-long celebrations began with a Hindi Diwas programme and Kavi Sammelan, organised by the High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Suneet Mehta formally opened the celebrations, highlighting initiatives to promote Hindi and Indian culture in Fiji. He also outlined a range of activities planned over the next 15 days.
Fiji Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran, who attended as chief guest, highlighted the importance of Hindi to Fiji’s multicultural identity and the country’s Girmitiya heritage.
She reaffirmed her commitment to preserving and promoting Hindi language and Indian cultural traditions in Fiji.
The Kavi Sammelan featured poets presenting works centred on the richness of Hindi, Indian culture, social issues and human experiences.
Students and teachers from the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre also presented a cultural dance showcasing Indian classical arts.
The celebrations are aimed at encouraging greater interest in Hindi while strengthening people-to-people connections between Fiji and India.
As part of the broader cultural and educational engagement, the High Commission of India and ICCR in Suva also donated books to Ahmadiyya Muslim Primary School in Narere, with the initiative focused on encouraging reading and expanding students’ exposure to knowledge, language and Indian culture.
Organisers said the Hindi Pakhwada programme reflects the enduring cultural links between the two countries and India’s continuing efforts to strengthen India–Fiji friendship through language, education and cultural exchange.
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