The recent launch of a book on the Girmityas of Fiji was an event to remember.
The book, ‘A Fijian Memoir- Footprints of Girmitiya’s Grandson,’ written by Pratap Chand, was received with musical solemnity at a ceremony held at Milton Hall in the South Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe on September 15.
Hudd and Tessa, two accomplished percussionists accorded a musical reception to Mr Chand, Chief Guest Shiu Charan, President, New Zealand Association of Fiji Teachers (NZAFT), Chandra Prakash, Vice-President of the Association and Master of Ceremonies and other guests.
Mr Charan recalled the years that he and Mr Charan spent as lecturers at Nasinu Training College and later at the Fiji Teachers Union as ‘pleasant and rewarding times.’
“Growing up in a farming village, Pratap showed tenacity and a great sense of purpose in pursuing his education, which prepared him for responsible positions later. I urge Indo-Fijians to learn from his example and make something good out of life. I commend everyone to read his book,” he said.
Motivating factors
Responding to the comments, Mr Chand explained who and what motivated him to write the book. He acknowledged those who encouraged and assisted in writing his memoirs.
“I encourage people to write about their life, leaving a record to enable the ensuing generations to trace their roots,” he said.
Giyannendra Prasad of NZAFT, another old friend with similar service in the fields of education and politics in Fiji, gave an overview of the Book. As a person who assisted Mr Chand in compiling and finishing the memoirs; he narrated how the Book came to be written and the reasons behind its publication.
Kalpana Nand, a niece of the author, expressed her gratitude to all who helped in the launch of the Book.
Editor’s Note: The above was based on a report sent by David Reddy, Publicity Officer of the New Zealand Association of Fiji Teachers based in Auckland. For further details of the Book including purchase, please contact him on (09) 4788064; Email: david_reddy@xtra.co.nz
