Tamil language’s revival in Fiji gets a boost from India

In a groundbreaking milestone for the Tamil language in Fiji and the Pacific region, the Tamil Teaching Programme was officially launched today.

Funded by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and implemented in collaboration with the Fijian Ministry of Education, the Fiji Government, and TISI Sangam, this initiative seeks to preserve and revitalise one of the world’s oldest classical languages.

A historic day for Tamil Language in Fiji and the wider #Pacific region.

Immensely honored to launch today, the #Tamil Teaching Program in Fiji, funded by the @MEAIndia Government of India and implemented in partnership with @FijianEducation @FijiGovernment and @SangamFiji, a… pic.twitter.com/nGmuLxkiqG

— India in Fiji (@HCI_Suva) November 27, 2024

Two Tamil teachers from India will be stationed at Sangam schools in Rakiraki and Labasa to educate and inspire future generations. This marks a significant step forward in promoting Tamil culture and language among Fiji’s South Indian diaspora.

High Commissioner @pskarthigeyan opened the 93rd TISI Sangam Convention at the Churchill Park in Lautoka today. Bharatnatyam students of @iccr_suva also performed a lively presentation at the event. pic.twitter.com/l1GvRczLsA

— India in Fiji (@HCI_Suva) April 15, 2022

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The Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam (TISI Sangam) was founded in 1926 in Nadi by Sadhu Kuppuswamy, an indentured labourer turned spiritual leader. Influenced by Swami Vivekananda and other Indian saints, Sadhu Kuppuswamy dedicated his life to uniting Fiji’s South Indian community and fostering cultural and linguistic heritage. The organisation, initially centred around the iconic Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, has grown into a cornerstone of South Indian identity in Fiji.

Visited the Sri Siva Subrahmanya Swami temple in Nadi and had a darshan.

Along with my Parliamentary colleagues, could see first hand our vibrant culture and traditions flourishing in Fiji. pic.twitter.com/tTzGhmkVeQ

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 15, 2023

Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India’s Minister for External Affairs, has been a strong proponent of cultural preservation. Last year, during his visit to the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple last year, he committed to assisting with language and cultural education in Fiji. The introduction of Tamil teachers is a direct outcome of these discussions.

By strengthening ties between Fiji and Tamil Nadu, it ensures the survival of Tamil language and culture in Fiji for future generations.

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