Fiji Indians

Definition

Fiji Indians are the descendants of Indian laborers who were brought to Fiji by the British colonial government between 1879 and 1916 to work on sugar plantations. This group has played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of Fiji and is an important part of the Indian diaspora, particularly in the context of Hinduism and cultural practices that have persisted and evolved in their new environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fiji Indians make up about 38% of Fiji's population, making them a significant ethnic group within the country.
2. The arrival of Indian indentured laborers introduced various Hindu customs and traditions to Fiji, influencing local culture and religious practices.
3. Fiji Indians have retained many aspects of their cultural heritage, such as language (Hindi) and festivals (Diwali, Holi), while also adapting to Fijian society.
4. Political tensions have arisen in Fiji due to ethnic divisions between indigenous Fijians and Fiji Indians, impacting governance and national identity.
5. The socio-economic contributions of Fiji Indians include their role in agriculture, business, and education, which have shaped the Fijian economy.

Review Questions

• How did the migration of Fiji Indians influence the cultural landscape of Fiji?
  • The migration of Fiji Indians brought a wealth of cultural traditions to the islands, including Hindu festivals like Diwali and Holi. These traditions have become integrated into Fijian society, contributing to a multicultural environment. Additionally, the retention of the Hindi language among Fiji Indians helps maintain their cultural identity while enriching the linguistic diversity of Fiji.
• Evaluate the impact of ethnic tensions between indigenous Fijians and Fiji Indians on political developments in Fiji.
  • Ethnic tensions between indigenous Fijians and Fiji Indians have significantly influenced political developments in Fiji. These tensions often manifest in electoral politics, with policies sometimes favoring one group over the other. Such divisions can lead to instability and conflict, affecting governance and hindering national unity efforts as both groups strive for recognition and rights within Fijian society.
• Assess the role of Fiji Indians in shaping both local economy and cultural identity in contemporary Fiji.
  • Fiji Indians play a crucial role in shaping both the local economy and cultural identity in contemporary Fiji. Economically, they are prominent in sectors such as agriculture, trade, and services, contributing significantly to national GDP. Culturally, they enrich Fiji's diverse heritage through their unique customs, cuisine, and religious practices. This interplay between economic participation and cultural expression fosters a complex identity that reflects both Indian roots and Fijian influences.

Related terms

Indian Diaspora: The movement and settlement of people of Indian origin outside India, contributing to cultural exchanges and the spread of Hindu practices globally.

Hinduism:

A major world religion originating from the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a variety of beliefs and practices, and significantly influencing the cultural identity of Fiji Indians.

Indo-Fijian Culture: The unique blend of Indian traditions, customs, and beliefs that have developed among Fiji Indians, including festivals, cuisine, and social practices.