Rabuka Reopens Tavua Mandir, Praises Unity and Nation-Building

Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka today officiated the reopening of the Tavua Laxmi Narayan Mandir, describing the occasion as a powerful reflection of unity, faith, and community-driven nation-building.

The Mandir, rebuilt after being destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, now stands as a renewed spiritual and cultural centre for the Tavua community.

In his address, the Prime Minister said the Mandir represents far more than a place of worship, calling it a living symbol of service, resilience, and shared purpose.

“This Mandir stands as a testament to collective action,” Mr Rabuka said.

“It reflects the leadership of the Temple Trustees and Committee, the generosity of donors at home and abroad, and the dedication of volunteers, artisans, and families whose contributions made this possible.

“This is nation-building at its most fundamental level, communities working together, grounded in shared values, to create spaces that uplift society.”

Mr Rabuka said the consecration marks not just the reopening of a building, but the renewal of dharma, urging Fijians to live by values of righteousness, compassion, humility, and duty.

He commended the Tavua Laxmi Narayan Mandir Committee and the wider community for their vision and perseverance in rebuilding the temple, highlighting the effort as a symbol of strength and unity.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the late Mr Parma Nand Sharma, acknowledging his legacy of service and generosity, while recognising the continued leadership of Mr Vijay Nand Sharma and all those who contributed to the project.

“This redevelopment is more than a construction project, it is the fulfilment of a father’s dream and a testament to the strength, unity, and shared purpose of this community,” he said.

Mr Rabuka emphasised that Fiji’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths, noting that different cultures, faiths, and traditions enrich the nation’s identity and sense of belonging.

“Our different cultures, faiths, and traditions are neither weakness nor points of division. Rather, they are sources of strength,” he said.

He stressed that nation-building requires continued commitment to unity through respect and shared purpose.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the important role of religious institutions in shaping society, saying they instil values that complement national development.

“They instil values such as integrity, respect, discipline, and service. These are the foundations of a peaceful and progressive nation,” he said.

Mr Rabuka concluded by extending his well wishes to the Tavua community, expressing hope that the Mandir will continue to serve as a place of comfort, reflection, and inspiration for generations to come.