The Western Bhajan Kirtan Sarovar (Fiji) held a Faag Sammelan last Sunday in Lautoka to prepare for the upcoming Holi celebrations.

Organiser Navneet Ram said they were trying to keep their tradition and culture alive.

“We are just preparing for the upcoming Holi celebrations this month,” he said.

“And just gathering and trying to keep the culture alive.

“After COVID-19 we helped two families, and if someone dies, we would give money.

Me Ram said they had plans to have a Diwali Mela just to keep the tradition alive and gather people like today.

The group targeted between $400 to $500 to help them in the Holi celebrations.

Assistant women Minister Sashi Kieran was also present at the event.

Ms Kiran said the event the singing during the Faag Sammelan took place for a month every year.

“There is a lot of tradition behind it,” she said.

“Generally, we used to to be told as children, that this is the time you forgive all.

“If you have differences with anybody, you forgive and play colours.

“And to look into our communities internally, and our families internally, if we have differences.

“Let’s use this opportunity to let go of the differences.

“We have many ethnic groups in Fiji, and we are genuinely able to let go of differences.”