Hundreds of Hindu devotees gathered at the Maha Mariamman Kovil temple in Navua on Saturday night, as the religious community continued into its sixth night of religious rituals, fasting and celebrations.
Organised by the Navua Branch of the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam, this year’s annual fire walking ceremony will also mark the 90th year of the Maha Mariamman Kovil temple in Navua.
“Cultural events such as these are a good reflection of the goal of the Fijian Government to ensure that all Fijians are able to fully and effectively engage in their religious, traditional and cultural activities of choice. The presence of the youth here today is a positive assurance that the Sangam traditions and south Indian culture is well carried forward to the coming generations - indeed something that every individual must be proud of when their inheritance is celebrated and shared with others. Congratulations Mother Sangam and Sangam youth for working in harmony with TISI Sangam,” said the Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Veena Bhatnagar.
The Sangam Temple in Navua was established in 1932, since its establishment the Sangam culture and tradition has been instrumental in creating paths of success for several of their devoted followers through the blessing of Goddess Mariamman.
The seven day annual religious celebrations concluded yesterday with selected devotees performing the fire walking ceremony.
Fire walking is an annual ritual observed by Hindus of south Indian descent in Fiji who believe life is like walking on fire however discipline helps them to achieve a balanced life, self-acceptance and to see good in everything.