The High Commission of India in Fiji hosted a Republic Day Reception on January 23, 2026, and celebrated India's 77th Republic Day on 26 January 2026, marking the historic date in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect. The events underscored the deep-rooted friendship and strong bilateral relations between the two nations.
The festivities began with a grand National Day Reception hosted by the High Commission of India at Novotel, Lami. The event was graced by the Honorable Filimoni Vosarogo, Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands & Mineral Resources, who attended as the Chief Guest.
The reception brought together approximately 150 distinguished guests, including Hon. Esrom Immanuel, Minister for Finance, Commerce & Business Development, Hon. Ms. Sashi Kiran, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Ifereimi Vasu, Minister for i-Taukei Affairs, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, Minister for Public Enterprises, Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Hon. Sakiusa Tubuna, Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Penioni Ravunawa, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon. Mahindra Chaudhury, Former Prime Minister, Hon. Biman Prasad, Members of Parliament, prominent members of the Fijian Government, diplomatic corps, business community, and members of the Indian diaspora.
In his address, High Commissioner Suneet Mehta expressed his gratitude to the Acting Prime Minister for his presence and reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Fiji in areas of mutual interest such as healthcare, education, agriculture, capacity building, and people-to-people ties. He emphasized the importance of further strengthening the robust, multifaceted partnership between the two nations for the collective benefit of their people, the Pacific region, and the global community. Furthermore, the High Commissioner underscored how India’s democratic foundations have served as the catalyst for its remarkable progress in the IT sector, space exploration, and the ongoing digital revolution.
In her remarks, the Chief of Protocol highlighted the shared history and cultural ties binding the two countries. She praised the strong framework of democracy in both nations and expressed Fiji's gratitude for India's continued assistance and goodwill. She acknowledged the theme for this year’s celebration, “150th anniversary of India’s National Song Vande Mataram.”
On the morning of 26th January, 2026, a special ceremony was held at India House in Suva to commemorate India's 77th Republic Day. The event, attended by approximately 150 members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India, was a vibrant display of patriotism and cultural pride.
High Commissioner Suneet Mehta began the proceedings by paying a floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the 'Iron Man of India.' This was followed by the unfurling of the Indian national flag, the Tiranga, to the tune of the national anthem. High Commissioner Mehta then read the excerpts of the address of the Honorable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, highlighting India's advancement in science & technology, its democratic values, and robust economic growth. The speech also emphasized the nation's commitment to unity, resilience, environmental responsibility, and good governance. The celebrations included a captivating performance of Kathak Dance by Mr. Avijeet Chakravarty and a poem and a small speech by a student of Hindi classes of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre celebrated the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram”, India’s National Song, by organizing an exhibition at India House on 26th January 2026. Written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the song’s year-long celebrations was inaugurated by the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on November 7, 2025.
These celebrations stood as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and Fiji, rooted in shared history, democratic principles, and a collective vision for a prosperous future.
Photos can be found in Events Gallery.
