By Sakul Kundra
The 2025 graduation ceremony at Fiji National University (FNU) was not only a celebration of academic success but also a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of music and culture in today’s world. The University Choir connected with and inspired everyone present, entertaining graduates, families, and friends alike. Their performance of popular Bollywood songs such as Yeh Dosti and Raatein Lambiyaa captivated the audience, offering more than just musical enjoyment—it delivered a meaningful message of respect for multiculturalism that made the occasion truly memorable.
Throughout history, music has transcended borders and crossed oceans to bring together people from diverse cultures. It fosters cooperation and cultivates mutual respect. The FNU Youth Choir exemplifies this spirit. Despite coming from varied backgrounds, its members share a common passion and dedication to music. Their talent and enthusiasm lit up the hall, reflecting their love for music and cultural expression.
The choir’s repertoire featured songs in multiple languages—including Hindi, English, and Indigenous Fijian—underscoring the University’s commitment to embracing and promoting cultural diversity. It provided students a platform to celebrate not just their academic achievements but also their cultural identities. This reflection acknowledges and applauds the dedication of the choir, their mentor, and the university leadership.
Music played a powerful role in inspiring and uplifting the graduates, delivering a message of unity and joy. The meaningful lyrics explored themes of friendship, loyalty, and mutual support, reinforcing ethical values the graduates will carry into their future careers. The choir’s diverse selection—from Western music to traditional Fijian songs—was thoughtfully curated to resonate with the audience and emphasise respect and accomplishment.
Behind the scenes, many hours of rehearsal, planning, and teamwork led to this unforgettable performance. Under the guidance of Master Lasarusa Deveta, the choir worked tirelessly to highlight each member’s individual strengths. His mentorship ensured the performance was not only technically sound but also emotionally impactful. His evident passion for music surely inspired the choir’s exceptional delivery.
The singers’ dedication is truly commendable. Despite their busy academic schedules, they made time to rehearse and prepare for this special event. Their sincerity, emotional depth, and enthusiasm were evident throughout the performance, lifting the spirits of everyone present. It’s likely the songs remained with the audience long after the ceremony ended.
One must also acknowledge the unwavering support of the university’s leadership. Without it, such a performance would not have been possible. Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba has consistently encouraged students and the choir to express their talents. Vinaka vakalevu, Madam, for your inspiring leadership in promoting music and the performing arts.
A choir is a treasured asset for any university. It fosters a sense of community, showcases cultural unity, and offers a platform for students to express their creativity. More importantly, it highlights the unifying power of the arts across all boundaries of background and language. The FNU Choir’s performance surely mesmerised the audience. Participation not only allowed students to demonstrate their skills but also to connect with one another, nurturing unity and camaraderie. Such experiences will undoubtedly benefit them in both their personal and professional lives. Who knows—they may one day perform on national or international stages.
As an academic expert in Bollywood and its influence on diasporic and Indigenous communities (with ranked publications), I found the choir’s performance to be a rich subject for further research. For the graduating students, it transformed the ceremony into a lifelong memory rather than a fleeting event—one that will continue to inspire them in the years to come. The university anthem proclaims, “We are one, no matter what colour or creed”—a sentiment beautifully echoed by the choir. They are truly an asset, and their voices will continue to inspire locally, regionally, and beyond. Vinaka to the Choir for your heartfelt performance. Your harmonies, pitch, and delivery showcased not only your excellence but also your deep passion for music.
Contributing Author: Dr Sakul Kundra is an Associate Professor at the College of Humanities, Education and Law, Fiji National University. The views expressed are his own and not those of this newspaper or his employer.
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