Mr. and Mrs Arun Lal;
Mr. and Mrs Ravinesh Lal;
Members of the Shree Sanatan Dharam Sat Sang Ramayan Mandali;
Members of the Media;
Brothers and Sisters;
Namaskaar
It is heartwarming to see all of you join us in commemorating the birth of Lord Rama. Your presence displays the virtue of your prayers for peace, prosperity, success and quest for divine blessings from Lord Rama.
Brothers and Sisters,
This is an occasion for spending time with God and seeking renewal — a renewed mind is the canvas on which the spirit of God can paint.
As we gather to celebrate the beginning of Ram Naumi, our Sikh brothers and sisters are celebrating Baisakhi today, marking the Sikh New Year. A celebration of the formation of Khalsa Panth, a time for farmers to thank God for an abundant harvest — a symbol of prosperity.
Similarly, for our Islam brothers and sisters, tomorrow marks the beginning of Ramadan, a time for fasting, reflection and contemplation.
Brothers and Sisters,
As we gather at this special time, I reason for us to reflect on the beauty of our World, which rests in the diversity of our people — our diversity as a nation; socially, ethnically and culturally.
Religious liberty, as recognised in the Bill of Rights, is a founding principle of our Fijian Constitution. As a secular state, we as Fijians, are fortunate to have equal rights to practice our religion openly and live civilly.
Brothers and Sisters,
We must welcome the opportunity to learn from others during this time, to acknowledge our religious identity, but also be susceptible to living together harmoniously, irrespective of creed, colour or culture.
Let me also acknowledge, with deepest gratitude, Mr. and Mrs. Arun Lal for inviting us into your home to share the celebration of moral reflection indicating the victory of goodness over evil.
Hinduism is a religion based on universality, it’s a value system, more than just a faith or religion one follows.
Hinduism is a secular and tolerant religion and followers of the religion world over have evolved and co-existed with many other religions.
Brothers and Sisters,
While your Government has progressively taken formidable, and prudent steps to recovery, your role in this journey is equally important. With the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccines, it is important that every one of us gets registered and vaccinated. By being inoculated, you are putting the health of our friends and families, and putting our beloved nation in a firmer position to normalcy and recovery.
During this difficult time, we look for forte and encouragement from our spiritual and cultural roots. And that is why we are here today to celebrate the beginning of 9 days of prayers to mark the birth of Lord Ram.
I wish to remind you all of the key teachings of Lord Ram, which is very important for us, as Fijians, to incorporate in our daily lives. Never give up – when you have set your goals, whether it takes a day, weeks or even years, never back down. Modesty is the best policy, never let power or knowledge bring arrogance in your path or vision. Whatever the situation, keep calm, as panicking will not solve a crisis.
It is these teachings amongst others that you will learn over the 9 days of scripture readings and devotion.
Brothers and Sisters,
As Fijians, we are lucky that we are able to move freely and celebrate with our friends and family. This freedom that many around the world are still deprived of. The movement of people within and across borders can be further improved, as more people are vaccinated. I encourage you and your families to register and get your vaccine jabs.
I received my vaccine injection this afternoon and I am feeling totally fine. Please do not let the negativity about the vaccines deter you from protecting yourself and your family.
Do remember, with a large majority of the Fijian population vaccinated, we will be able to safely open our borders. This means unemployed people getting employed again and supporting their families and the Fijian economy.
In conclusion, I hope that Lord Ram bestows happiness and prosperity in your lives and brightens it with his divine blessings — Happy Ram Naumi!
Thank you and Dhanyavaad.