Suva (Fiji), Sept 19: The Government of India has found a unique way to commemorate the World Hindi Day in Fiji. Through its Indian Cultural Centre in Suva, the Government of India will provide free Hindi classes to Fijians, said Dr. Kamal Mishra, Director, Indian Cultural Centre, Fiji.

Fiji celebrated the World Hindi Day at the University of the South Pacific (USP) AusAID Performance Space Theatre on September 14. Dr. Brij Lal, Permanent Secretary for Education, Govt. of Fiji, was the chief guest at the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mishra said that promoting awareness and use of the Hindi language is of utmost importance, given the reach of the widely spoken language.

“Hindi is a widely spoken language in the world. The Fiji society is doing remarkable work in the preservation of Hindi language and literature since the Girmit era,” Dr. Mishra was quoted as saying by Fiji Sun.

“The academic institutions, schools and Universities, cultural and social organisations, as well as print and electronic media, have contributed immensely in the promotion and awareness for Hindi learning and teaching. The Government of India, through the Indian Cultural Centre, is providing part time Hindi classes at the Centre free of cost, along with scholarships in Hindi Language and Literature.”

He also emphasised that Bollywood, which has started making an impact in Fiji, is yet another reflection of the bond between Hindi and Fiji.