UNITED STATES, June 3, 2024 (New India Abroad, by Sangeetha Shankar): Over the past year, in my new role as a California Regional Director at the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), I’ve had the privilege of engaging with global Hindus. One such engagement has been with the Californian Fijian Hindu communities in our on-going showcase of the global Hindu diaspora. Recently, we collaborated with Australian Fijian Hindu movie maker Ravi Chand of Warrior Tribe Films. Through his movies, he narrates refreshingly realistic, humane stories of Hindus and their struggles in preserving their faith and culture. Namaste Yoga, his latest production, is a poignant movie that sheds light on the whitewashing of yoga and the struggles of its indigenous practitioners, an Australian Hindu family. The film aims to promote a deeper understanding of the Hindu faith and culture through its powerful storytelling.

HAF California spearheaded the screenings at iconic Hindu temples run by Fijian communities, at Hayward and Sacramento, attracting interested audiences across ages. Virtual Q&A sessions gave the attendees a unique opportunity to interact with the movie maker and gain deeper insights into the movie’s themes and production. The sessions were filled with thought-provoking questions and engaging discussions, which further enhanced the movie experience. A true global celebration indeed! I too learned at length about the Fijian Hindu culture and its immense pride. A close-knit community, the Fijian Hindus work hard to pass on their faith and culture to the next generations. Known as Girmityas, they originate from Bihar, India. Their extreme hardships as indentured laborers are slowly being unearthed. This discovery has been a profound and enriching experience for me, deepening my appreciation for the resilience and strength of the Fijian Hindu communities.

More on what it means to be a Fiji Hindu in the US at source.
https://www.newindiaabroad.com/english/views/breaking-stereotypes-not-all-hindus-are-indian

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