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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 03 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

“Our Future is at Hand – Lets Move Forward Together”

Maika Kasami

The importance of hand hygiene has become a global

phenomenon in light of the unprecedented surge of the
Covid-19 pandemic worldwide.
Ocean Soaps Limited and the Ministry of Health re-
cently advocated on the importance of hand hygiene on
Global Hand-washing Day that was celebrated on Octo-
ber 15 in Lautoka.
Speaking on the above theme of this year, Mr. Rajesh
Punja, Managing Director, Punjas Group of companies
said the unprecedented nature of the ongoing COVID-19
pandemic highlighted the critical role hand hygiene
played in disease transmission.
“Ocean Soaps Limited has been committed in ensuring
that our local communities have quality hand hygiene
products that keeps everyone safe and protected.
“Since the start of global pandemic, Ocean Soaps Lim-
ited has been able to produce antibacterial Handwash,
MedX 70% Ethyl Alcohol Hand Sanitizer and Antibac-
terial Soap Bars to continue the fight against viruses and
germs.”
Acting Lautoka Hospital Emergency Department act-
ing Head of Department Mafa Lokenga pointed out that
people in Fiji are too complacent when it comes to hand
hygiene.
“It only takes eight steps of hand hygiene in 20seconds.
“But honestly speaking, we are too complacent in
Ocean Soaps Limited staff demonstrates how proper hand washing is practised during the launch of the Global Hand Washing
hand washing. Hand-washing is very critical and a ba- on October 15. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
sic habit that everyone needs to have because it reduces really bad respiratory infection which could have been division was the worst affected. We managed to talk to
the risk of infections like diarrhoea and severe respira- prevented by just simple hand hygiene. the directors of Punjas and decided to make school stu-
tory illness. At this point in time during the COVID-19 “I would like to thank the organisers Ocean Soaps dents become ambassadors as they are very instrumen-
pandemic hand hygiene has been one of the main issue of Punjas Group for providing the essentials like soaps tal in behaviour change and this has resulted in the huge
we have been trying to address to prevent the spread of to allow us at Lautoka Hospital and at the Ministry Of drop in the number of cases.”
COVID-19. Health in the prevention of diseases,” Ms. Mafa added. Kumar concluded they were grateful to Ocean Soaps
“One way to make people realise that hand hygiene is Divisional Health Inspector West, Rakesh Kumar, re- and Punjas Group for their continued support towards Fi-
compulsory is to make them know that they have fami- called the events of 2013 when they battled the spread of ji’s health ministry and for reaching out to the people in
lies. I see the worst cases in the emergency department Typhoid in the western division. “The western their respective communities.
with people suffering from really bad diarrhoea infection

AMRIT LAL INVESTMENTS

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Bavadra Road, Kashmir Lautoka Phone/ Fax : 666 5937 Mobile : 999 5950 / 777 5950 P.O Box 1515, Lautoka

Wishing all our Customers, Friends &

Families a Happy Diwali & a
Agents of Westpac Prosperous New Year
Banking Services

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 04 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Help from Canada for 540 families

Local coordinator of the Fiji Disaster Relief Society Ronald Ritesh handing over the grocery Members of the Surrey, Canada based Fiji Disaster Relief Society which was established to
items to the Head Teacher of Lovu Sangam School for the destitute families of Lovu. assist unfortunate people of the Fijian society

Maika Kasami
A Surrey, Canada based non-profit organisation has taken
the initiative to help its fellow Fijians back home who have
been greatly affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Fiji Disaster Relief Society (FDRS) Canada in partnership
with Universal Office supplies have begun distributing grocery
hampers to 540 genuinely affected families across the country.
FDRS Canada local coordinator Ronald Ritesh through
his company Universal Office Supplies has joined hands with
NGO’s like Fiji Muslim League, Worthy Works, Rewa San-
atan, Sikh Society, Nasinu Sanatan, Sangam Society and Sai
Centre in assisting the distribution of the grocery hampers in
Fiji.
The $50 worth grocery hampers includes basic food items.
80 hampers were distributed in Suva/Labasa, Sigatoka/Navua
(90), Tavua/Rakiraki (30), Nasinu (80), Lautoka/Ba (105) and
Nadi (75) for a total of 540.
Speaking from Canada, FDRS president Kavin Chand said
for this particular assistance they raised close to $25,000.
“This organisation was formed back in 2018 when Cyclone
Winston struck Fiji in which we had raised $17,000 in one
night. Habitat Humanity had taken care of the distribution
back then. We assisted during Cyclone Yasa where we raised
$27,000 in 10-hours. So this organisation made up of former
Fijian citizens has been set up to help our fellow Fijians back
home during such disasters,” Chand highlighted.
He acknowledged the several businesses in Canada who
helped in raising the funds for the needy people of Fiji who are
affected by the job losses and other economic hardships faced
by the ongoing global pandemic.
“I also thank those NGO’s in Fiji that have assisted us in the
distribution to our brothers and sisters who are in dire need for
support during these difficult times,” Chand added.
Universal Office Supplies managing director Ronald Ritesh,
who is the local coordinator, said he was honoured to be part
of such a worthy cause.
“I did not hesitate when I was approached to help in the dis-
tribution. It is part of our community work to assist our fellow
Fijians and I also thank our Fijian brothers and sisters abroad
who have not forgotten their roots and continue to support
their own people back home.”
Meanwhile, Chand pointed out that they are willing to again
lend a helping hand when the need arises in future in light of
children returning to school soon.
“We will need to get documentation of the ground work and
if there is a need we will surely help out. But nothing is con-
firmed yet.”

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Happy Diwali & a

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Friends & Families

DIRECTORS
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 05 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Nazhat Shameem encourages Soroptimists to continue advocacy

Zareena Bi

“The world needs advocates like you to con-

tinue to effectively push for the promotion and
protection of the rights of women and girls”.
This was the vital message conveyed by
the President of the United Nations Human
Rights Council, Nazhat Shameem, to around
4,000 SI members who convened virtually to
celebrate their 100 years of existence from
October 1 to 3.
“ Allow me to first applaud Soroptimist In-
ternationals long standing and effective work
to advance the human rights of women and
girls at the international, national and local
levels including your work to help achieve
Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender
equality.
“As only the third female President in the
history of the Human Rights Council I am
acutely aware that the United Nations must
both be on the front lines of the fight for the
rights of women and girls and be a space
where the perspectives of women and girls
from around the world are heard and reflected
in the decisions that are made.
“In this regard I am pleased to record that
the council takes an active step in mainstream-
ing gender in its discussions and processes
and also regularly adopts resolutions aimed at
promoting and protecting the rights of women SI Lautoka members with a member from SI Sigatoka and SI Jetset club whilst marking the centennial anniversary of Soroptimist International
and girls including on eliminating discrimina-
tion against women and girls and mainstream- She further added that this 100th anniversa- candles, unveiling banners and holding re- the lives
ing a gender perspective into the implementa- ry of SI is a wonderful opportunity to recog- spective celebrations. of women and girls through programs lead-
tion of the 2030 agenda.” nize how well the organization has effectively SI Fiji is affiliated to Soroptimist Interna- ing to social and economic empowerment.
Ambassador Shameem added that without advocated for women and girls and encour- tional of the South West Pacific (SISWP) Fed- “The programs fall under Education, Envi-
the effective advocacy of organizations like aged the members to continue with their ex- eration which is one of the five federations ronment, Economic and Social Development,
Soroptimist International the council would cellent work. that make up the Soroptimist International Health and Human Rights which is aligned
not be working to address the challenges faced Meanwhile, locally SI members of the eight body and currently SISWP is headed by Su- to the SDG’s while we also have a General
by women and girls as robustly as it does. clubs in Fiji marked the 100 year anniversary man Lal, a Fiji member from the SI Sigatoka Consultative/ECOSOC Status under United
starting from September 21 by lighting club. Lal informed that Soroptimists improve Nations.

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 06 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Protocol For Covid Safe Restaurants, Cafés And Food Courts Operation
The following principles set the mandato-
ry minimum parameters for safely operating
Restaurants, Cafés and Food Courts during
the COVID-19 pandemic. The protocols and
measures contained herein are designed to en-
sure minimal risk when continuing essential
services and businesses and may be subject to
review (modification, additional or removal).
In addition to the non-negotiable Protocols for
COVID-Safe Business Operations, Restau-
rants, Cafés and Food Courts operations shall
adhere to the following:
1. All eligible persons (employees, customers
and clients) must be fully vaccinated1 and
present their respective vaccination cards in
order to enter the premises. Only in excep-
tional circumstances where an exemption let-
ter is provided by the Ministry of Health and
Medical Services (MHMS), an unvaccinated
person can enter.
2. Businesses can operate with a strict 2 - me-
tre physical distancing. For capacity specifi-
cation, please refer to the Fijian COVID Safe
Economic Recovery Framework 2.0.
Below summaries operations and capacity:
Operations commencement date: 4 October
2021 Vaccination Target 60% 70% 80% Ca-
pacity of Venue 70% capacity of the venue
80% capacity of the venue Maximum allow-
able capacity with 2-metre physical distancing
3. Businesses must verify the vaccination sta-
tus of the eligible employees, customers and
clients through the Vax-Check tool from 4 Oc-
tober, 2021.
4. Businesses must ensure all employees,
customers and clients wear appropriate PPE,
such as masks and maintain 2-metre physical
distance at all times. The 1 Fully vaccinated
means that the eligible individual has received
2 doses of COVID – 19 vaccine injections
and met the waiting period of 14 days after
the second dose. Effective as at 20 September
2021 employer/business shall bear the respon-
sibility to provide all employees with Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE).
5. A maximum of 10 patrons per bubble is
allowed with 2-metre distance between each
bubble. Each table is to be considered as a
bubble and patrons to remain in their respec-
tive bubble. Outdoor seating, where available,
must be opened.
6. Customers can only remove masks at the
point of consuming their meals.
7. Businesses must make available provision
for hand washing facilities and/or sanitisers to
employees and customers. Employees must
frequently wash and sanitise their hands espe-
cially before, during and after preparing foods
and after handling garbage and utensils.
8. Businesses are strongly encouraged to take
reservations/bookings and ensure no crowd-
ing outside of the establishment.
9. All employees, customers, clients must
download the careFIJI mobile application
and keep the device Bluetooth turned on. In
the event an employee does not have a smart-
phone, the employer/business shall bear the
responsibility to provide smartphones. Only
in exceptional circumstances where the use
of careFIJI is not possible, businesses must
maintain a register for contact tracing infor-
mation for employees and customers. This
must include but not limited to name, time/
date, ID card, residential address and next-of-
kin contacts.
10. Businesses must register and download
a unique digital geo-identification indicator,
through the use of a QR Code, to identify
the location of their businesses and various
branches. The QR Code will need to be print-
ed and displayed in entry and exit locations of
their business and various branches. All cus-
tomers shall be required to scan the QR Code
using their careFIJI application when visiting
the business location, whereby phone number
and the time of entry and exit will be recorded.
11. Businesses must use physical queue line
controls, such as 2-metre floor markings, to
maintain a physical distance of 2-metres be-
tween customers.
12. Businesses must maintain safe hygiene
protocols and disinfect all high-touch surfaces
regularly. Thorough disinfection to be under-
taken every day before opening and closing.
13. Employees must wash hands before and
after stocking or rearranging shelves, menus
or product displays.
14. Businesses must maximise natural venti-
lation by opening windows, doors, and vents
when conditions allow (if that does not pose
a safety risk), or mechanical ventilation us-
ing fans and ducts, or a combination of both.
Any poorly ventilated spaces in the workplace
must be identified and steps are taken to im-
prove fresh air flow in these areas. The use
of portable air cleaners with High-Efficien-
cy Particulate Effective as at 20 September
2021 Air (HEPA) filters in spaces with high
occupancy or limited ventilation needs to be a
strong consideration.
15. In buildings with heating, ventilation, and
air conditioning (HVAC) systems, ensure that:
i) These systems are operating in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions and de-
sign specifications; ii) All regularly scheduled
inspections and maintenance procedures are
conducted; iii) Maximise the amount of out-
side air supplied; and iv) Where feasible, in-
stalling air filters with a Minimum Efficiency
Reporting Value (MERV) 13 or higher.
16. Where practical, use of cash should be dis-
couraged. Integrate technologies to enable au-
tomation, such as contactless payment, where
possible. Where use of cash or card swipes
cannot be avoided, ensure proper hygiene and
sanitisation practices are in place.
17. Customers must not share glasses, bilos
and cutleries amongst themselves. 18. Busi-
nesses must disinfect tables and chairs in be-
tween patrons.
19. Music/live entertainment (including live
music with at least 4 metres physical
distancing from the nearest customer) is al-
lowable. To maintain physical distancing,
dancing is strictly not permitted.
20. Buffet services are not permitted. Busi-
nesses must only offer a la carte.
21. All commonly used amenities such as salt
and pepper-shakers, sauce dispensers, and
other tabletop items and provide them on a
request basis.
22. Businesses must remove one chair per ta-
ble and use that space as a designated place
for the server to come to the table, similar to
the open side on a booth.
23. In the event a positive case is found on the
premises, whether it is employees or custom-
ers, the MHMS has the right to instruct for the
premises to close for decontamination. The
MHMS protocols for decontamination will
apply. KITCHEN AND BARS
24. Businesses shall employ all efforts to
prevent any possible viral transmission from
kitchen/bar preparation areas to customers
via the food or beverage products served. The
goal is to clean, sanitise, and disinfect when-
ever possible to reduce risk of transmission.
25. Hand sanitising facilities are to be posi-
tioned at all entry and exit points of a kitchen/
bar. All staff are to sanitise hands upon every
exit and entry. Effective as at 20 September
2021
26. Hand washing facilities should be within
close proximity to all food and drink prepa-
ration areas. Continual hand washing proce-
dures should be implemented throughout each
shift, especially after preparation of food and
drink orders or when staff come in contact
with refuse, returned tableware or glassware.
27. Whilst plating food, opening bottles, shak-
ing cocktails or garnishing drinks, staff are to
ensure minimal contact and proximity to the
final product before served to customers.
28. All utensils, knives, bar tools, chopping
boards and surface areas must be sanitised
after each use to prevent contamination. Sa-
nitising baths are recommended for high-use
hand contact tools including, but not limited
to, knives, spoons, strainers, stirrers, cocktail
shakers and bottle openers.
29. Tableware and glassware returned from
front of house should be immediately cleaned,
disinfected and sanitised by either a commer-
cial dishwasher (if available), or by hand us-
ing detergent and hot water as recommended
by the MHMS guidelines.
30. All kitchen and bar contact surface areas
are to be cleaned, sanitised and disinfected
throughout each shift using approved methods
by the MHMS. This includes, but not limited
to, benches, refrigeration doors, door handles,
ovens, stoves and taps. A record of this daily
procedure needs to be kept by the business.
31. All kitchen and bar staff must wear ap-
proved face masks during their shift. This can
be temporarily removed to taste and smell the
food and drinks during preparation or cook-
ing. Face masks must be worn when commu-
nicating with staff and customers. BACK OF
HOUSE
32. Employees must wash hands before and
after stocking or rearranging shelves, menus
or product displays.
33. In the event a positive case is found on
the premises, whether it is employees or cus-
tomers, the MHMS has the right to instruct
for the premises to close for decontamination.
The MHMS protocols for decontamination
will apply. The MHMS in consultation with
MCTTT has developed the above protocols
to allow Restaurants, Cafés and Food Courts
to commence operations under strict COVID
Safe protocols. Businesses must satisfactorily
demonstrate the implementation of COVID
Safe protocols. Effective as at 20 September
2021
LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
Any person who fails to comply with the man-
datory requirements under this Protocol as or-
dered by the Permanent Secretary for Health
and Medical Services commits an offence and
is liable on conviction to a fine not exceed-
ing $10,000 or imprisonment for a term not
exceeding 5 years or both under the Public
Health Act 1935. In addition, the approvals
provided to the business may be revoked

LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL

SUBSIDY ON REFUSE COLLECTION SEPTEMBER 6, 2021 - OCTOBER 31, 2021.
1. Lautoka City Council is providing subsidy on “REFUSE COLLECTION SERVICES” effective from September 6, 2021 to October 31, 2021 to the resident of Lautoka City
2. Residents are requested to take advantage of the “SUBSIDY PROGRAMME” and to thoroughly clean up their compounds taking special care in removing any articles, containers or
wastes likely to retain water and harbour mosquitoes, such as empty cans, bottles, old tyres, coconut shells, discarded household utensils etc.
3. Please take notice that this “SUBSIDY ON REFUSE COLLECTION” is for residential areas only and includes removal of all backyard waste such as tree branches, grass etc., and other
mosquito breeding materials and NOT for industrial refuse, trade waste or commercial refuse.
4. The residents who intends to take out the refuse are advised to pay normal fee of twenty dollars only ($20.00 VIP) per load at council’s cashier and make arrangements for removal by
council. The normal price is $39. 25 per load.
5. The charges for Commercial Waste is $38. 15/load, Trade and Industrial Waste is $43.60/load, Motor Body Part/Shell s $32.70/piece.
6. All residents are also requested to put their refuse for removal in a convenient place away from fire hydrants, water valves, water meters, sewage chambers, telephone and electrical pillar
boxes and also to avoid blocking driveways or access ways.
7. Any person found abandoning or depositing refuse/litter without prior arrangements with council will be issued spot fine of $40.00 under Litter Act 2008.
8. For any other enquiries please contact council on 666 0433 or Acting Director Health Services on 9908 553 or Manager Health Services on 9908 485 or Works Manager on 9908 554.

Mohammed Anees Khan

Chief Executive Officer
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 07 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

All properties to be properly numbered Outdoor or Open Air

The Lautoka City Council in consideration of new develop-
ments together with existing number of properties within city
boundary, is encouraging all properties to be properly “house
numbered”.
House numbers are not only convenient for finding address-
es but necessary for emergency responders to locate those in
need. When responding to an emergency, minutes matter so be
sure the Fire Department, Police and Ambulance etc can easily
and quickly locate your address.
There isn’t always someone available to wave down a Fire-
fighter or Police Officer and direct them to the location of the
emergency, so the emergency personnel responding are de-
pending on those numbers in front of a residence or a business.
It is difficult for emergency vehicles to find homes or business-
es whose address numbers are not clearly visible.
Searching for the location where the address is not appro-
priately marked can increase the response time and possibly
affect the outcome of the emergency situation.
Statutory bodies/ Stakeholders though not emergency re-
sponders also visits your property as and when needed. Lau-
toka City Council, Housing Authority, Department of Lands,
iTaukei Land Trust Board, Energy Fiji Limited, Water Author-
ity of Fiji are such authority’s to name a few.
It is recommended that residents of Lautoka City take a few
moments to install house numbers or examine existing house
numbers. Please ensure that the house numbers are easily read
from the street.
Every house has an assigned identifying number that dis-
plays your home or business address. If you do not have an
assigned house number, liaise with councils Building Depart-
ment to acquire one for your property. The cost of each house
number plate is $7.80 VIP.
Flea Market is back
Lautoka City Council is inviting the vendors to take advan-
tage of the recommencement of the Flea Market at the car-
nival grounds from October 15.
Spaces are available on First Come, First Serve Basis and
are limited and tend to fill up quickly.
For more information: contact our Town Rangers Depart-
ment on 6660433 or email townranger@lautokacitycouncil.
com.fj
Or visit: https://www.lautokacitycouncil.com.fj/.../
flea-market.../ to download the application form and our
Flea Market Policy.
Cost: $5 per day
Location: Carnival Grounds, Narara Parade
Commenced on:15th October,2021
Bring your own tent

Fiji Day a step into a new normal

Maika Kasami
“The Fiji we remember from before this crisis is now being
returned to us. Our freedoms are returning to us.”
Those were the encouraging words of His Excellency Major
General (Ret’d) Jioji Konusi Konrote, President of the Repub-
lic of Fiji in his Fiji Day celebrations speech.
Konrote said today we celebrate our resilience, our unity and
our independence. He said Fiji Day is the first step into the
next half-century.
“51 years ago today, our sovereignty as an independent
nation ceased to be an aspiration. It became a reality. Today,
throughout our islands and abroad, pride swells in the hearts of
every Fijian as we look upon our noble banner blue and reflect
on the hard work, ingenuity and faith it has taken to forge the
Fiji we know and love today.
“This Fiji Day is our first step into the next half-century. Like
so many around the world, it is also our first step into the new
normal as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Because,
my fellow Fijians, this Fiji Day we are not only celebrating
history, we are making it. Together, we are emerging from the
difficulties of a dark and difficult several months. From our
cities to our rural highlands, from our towns to our outer is-
lands, and from our homes to our hospitals, we Fijians have
done what we needed to do to make our country safe again.
We put our faith in each other, in our leaders and in the best
science and information available to us, and we acted together
in pursuit of collective good and wellbeing by becoming one
of the world’s fastest-vaccinated nations.”
Konrote pointed out that he could see a new dawn of hope
approaching.
“My fellow Fijians, now that clouds of the pandemic are
parting, we can see a new dawn of hope. If we hold fast to the
principles of peace, unity, compassion, and equality, our best
days remain ahead of us.”
Meanwhile, the Lautoka City Council staff members also Lautoka City Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan with
observed the Fiji Day celebrations whilst adhering to all health female market vendors during the Fiji Day week. Photo: LCC
protocols put in place by the Ministry of Health.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 08 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

It is a global issue that has since been well taken care of by the nings and the triumph of good over evil, and dispelling all the

EDITORIAL COMMENT
Finding the Light in Darkness
The festival of lights Diwali is upon us once again and it brings
with it the teachings and message that very well suits what our
country and the rest of the world are going through.
The festival acknowledges the Hindu God, Lord Rama, and
The Legend of his return to his Kingdom after fourteen years
in exile.
It is also believed that the Hindu Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi,
will visit homes if they are illuminated, clean and beautifully
decorated.
We, as a country, are slowly returning to normalcy after being
in exile ourselves for close to five months this year.
The pain and suffering brought about by the COVID19 pan-
demic were beyond anyone’s control.
relevant authorities but at a very huge cost.
People have lost their loved ones who have succumbed to the
deadly disease.
Fiji, itself, has recorded more than 650 deaths and counting,
while there are thousands around the world who have fallen
victims.
Businesses were affected by the invisible virus and forced to
shut down for good, while some are beginning to start from
scratch again.
But like in the past, as a nation we have stood the test of times.
We rose up from the devastation caused by natural disasters to
rebuild our lives and livelihood.
No matter what fate throws at us, we Fijians are renowned for
having a high level of resilience.
Despite all the troubles, the air of optimism and hope remains
that this year’s festival will be celebrated in its true spirit.
After all that we have suffered as a nation, it is time to sweeten
our taste buds and colorfully highlight and enlighten our mul-
tiracial status in society.
The light that will be lit this Diwali will symbolize purity, good
luck, and power.
We will all hope that the festival will symbolize new begin-
darkness COVID19 has brought.
With most of the targeted population now fully vaccinated and
those with the first dose nearly reaching a hundred percent,
signs are looking good that the upcoming festive season will
be celebrated in a much safer environment.
The Health safety protocols remain paramount and should be
adhered to at all times.
Fiji could become one of the very few countries that would be
fortunate to celebrate Diwali more freely come November 4.
It is clear that regardless of the ever-changing circumstances
the pandemic and other stressors bring, this holiday remains a
reminder of love, family, and positivity that will be celebrated
no matter the circumstances.
Your Community-based Newspaper has also suffered during
these trying times but will ever stay strong to deliver when it
matters.
May there be peace and prosperity this Diwali and years to
come in our beloved country.
Maika Kasami
Editor.

Civic and moral education from next year

The Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts is planning to
introduce a curriculum in civic and moral education from next
year.
To foster civic pride and moral values, the Ministry is devel-
oping a curriculum in civic and moral education. The curricu-
lum intends to inculcate a sense of civic pride and patriotism in
a student’s life from an early age.
“In accordance with Sub-Section 31.3 of the 2013 Fiji Con-
stitution, where reference is made to conversational and con-
temporary iTaukei and Fiji Hindi languages, I am also impress-
ing on schools to teach students conversational Vosa Vakaviti
and Fiji Hindi. This will further strengthen multiculturalism
and respect for diversity,” said Minister for Education Premila
Kumar (Pictured)
Students are encouraged to remember that it is through edu-
cation that one realises his/her full potential and gains individ-
ual independence. during a very challenging COVID-19 pandemic but our unity
“Teachers’ key role is to develop students so that they appre- as a nation of one people has made us more resilient than ever
ciate and respect our rich diversity and culture. “Students must before,” said the Minister.
develop a strong sense of national pride, self-confidence, coop-
eration and peaceful co-existence. With these qualities embed-
ded in our students, they will certainly contribute effectively
to nation-building. Our teachers must instil in our student’s,
values, a sense of patriotism, respect for all and education that
contributes positively to our country,” said, Minister Kumar.
The Minister added that Government has done a lot for edu-
cation. It has introduced several initiatives since 2014, which
has reduced the financial burden of education on parents
and guardians. These initiatives include free textbooks, free
transport assistance, free education grant, TELS and Toppers
Schemes.
“There is no doubt, that like the rest of the world, we are en-

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 09 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Singh’s have full confidence in Fijian Economy

One of the new landmark building projects of Singh’s Group of Companies, the Shiv City complex at Mana Street in Lautoka. Photo: Sanjay Goundar

Sanjay Goundar back as they ventured into this projects during a period when considering the fact that many companies suffer extremely be-
Covid-19 was at its peak in the country. cause of exorbitant rent.
While deadly global pandemic Covid-19 created havoc on Singh informed that with major drop in our economy from “Whilst our company is growing we will ensure all exist-
the predominant Fijian business sector a prominent Lautoka the pandemic and non-arrival of tourists due to closure of the ing and new business organizations associated with us or those
based company embraced the crisis with a positive mindset borders their rental car business suffered an untimely setback. who will rent their office space in our properties will also pros-
through major expansion to its operations. Hence the company decided to invest in projects which will per at this same time with special thanks to the current Fijian
Singh’s Group of Companies the parent company of Singh’s be financially sustainable for them in the long run which is the government and the Lautoka City Council.”
Rental Cars and Photo Studios Limited has invested heavily in building industry. Singh further informed that their new complex at Mana
different building projects within the Sugar City. “We continue to see new businesses opening up so the need Street named Shiv City has eight office spaces together with
Company General Manager Shiv Bhan Singh stressed that of proper and affordable renting spaces will keep increasing. parking space and a hall upstairs.
they had full confidence that the Fijian economy will bounce “Rental at our properties will be at a much reasonable price

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 10 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Hidden COVID warriors Budding civil engineer wins global

Science Quiz

The University of the

South Pacific’s proud
civil engineering
student Kaveet
Koushal Naiker
with his spoils after
winning the globally
organized iSmart
Science Quiz Compe-
tition. Reports/ Photo:
USP Media

Lautoka School for Special Education Head Teacher Kailash Pillay (2nd from right)
celebrating World Teachers Day with some of his teachers. A second year civil engineering student Wailevu, Labasa, said that he is proud because
from the regions premier tertiary education winning the International level quiz competi-
Zareena Bi ly embraced changes by working harder than
provider has attained a remarkable feat for the tion was a prestigious moment.
ever to do your job in a totally new ‘online’
country. “I was excited, but more than that, I was
This year’s World Teacher’s Day on Oc- setting that required you to turn to new meth-
The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) surprised when I was informed that I won the
tober 5 had a very motivating and uplifting ods of teaching, adapt to and overcome its
student has brought honour to the School of quiz out of all the students that participated.
theme for the whole world to counter the ef- challenges.
“ In your endeavour to serve, you have been Information, Technology, Engineering, Math- This was a huge achievement for me,” he add-
fect of the Covid 19 pandemic; Teachers at the
providing a sense of stability and purpose that ematics, and Physics (STEMP) by winning a ed.
heart of education recovery.
are very much needed to keep teaching and global science quiz in early September 2021. Kaveet stated that one of the difficulties he
While wishing the teachers in the country
learning alive. You have been living up to this Kaveet Koushal Naiker is pursuing his de- had during the quiz was researching the vari-
on this day the Minister for Education, Her-
year’s theme of being at the heart of the recov- gree in Bachelor of Civil Engineering. He ous branches of engineering.
itage and Arts Premila Kumar acknowledged
ery and your contribution towards education competed with 500 other science and engi- “To overcome the challenges, I attempted a
and applauded our front liners and stressed
recovery will have a huge impact on the future neering students from universities worldwide few online quizzes and took the help of the
that there is one group who were also our
of the country’s economy.” to win a $1500 prize in the iSmart Quiz Com- students of other fields whenever I got stuck
COVID warriors and that is our teachers and
Meanwhile, Head Teacher of Lautoka petition, the first organised by the iEngineer- in any question.”
education staff.
School for Special Education Kailash Pillay ing Group. iEngineering Group specialises in Kavneet’s biggest motivation is the support
“There have been many unsung heroes
thanked the special school teachers during the innovative engineering products and services. he gets from his family and relatives, as they
when Fiji detected its first COVID community
celebration at their school on October 6 for On 1 August, the first quiz round took place, always pushed him forward and brought the
transmission that led to 24 hour curfews and
their immense contribution during the during which the top 15 students from the lev- best out of him.
lock downs including closure of schools. Our
lockdown but highlighted that it will be a huge el 1 quiz were chosen. Final winners for 2021 “I would like to dedicate my success to the
teachers did everything they could to prevent
challenge for them to welcome the special stu- were announced in the second phase of assess- Almighty God and my parents for guiding me
learning loss.
dents back at school. ment via Live Online Quiz. and showing me the right path. Not forgetting
“I am grateful that many of you have readi-
The 21-year-old, originally from Solove, my lecturers and tutors,” he added.

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 11 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Inspirational achievements for visually impaired

Zareena Bi

A visually impaired 30 year old special school teacher has

set an inspirational benchmark to motivate other specially
challenged individuals to achieve their best.
Krishneel Sharma who hails from Vitogo, Lautoka has been
teaching at the Lautoka School for Special Education since last
year and his journey so far is truly inspirational.
“I was born fully sighted and started developing an eye dis-
ease known as Trachoma when I was in year 4 which resulted
in my eyes being operated on at the hospital.
“Unfortunately the operation was a failure so we tried to
travel to Australia in 2000 but due to the Coup in that year
our trip was delayed to 2001 and it was too late to save my
eyesight.
“Hence, I had to continue my primary education at the Fiji
School of Blind at Vatuwaqa in Suva after which I joined DAV
College in Nabua for high school education which is a main-
stream school. I managed to gain the highest marks in Form 4
and Form 6 at the school and after completing Form 7, I was
given the Multi Ethnic scholarship to study at the Fiji National
University (FNU).”
Sharma added that although he graduated with a Higher Di-
ploma in Business Management from FNU it was very difficult
to find work but he is grateful that Lautoka City Council took
him onboard for his practical for about six months.
He further added that he took advantages of the opportuni-
ties that came his way to study abroad.
“I was at LCC when I received a scholarship to study in
Making impossible - possible visually impaired teacher at Lautoka School for Special Education Krishneel Sharma preparing
Malaysia for a ICT Training program at Intermediate level for
worksheets for his students. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
vision impaired students to improve technology knowledge.
After returning from Malaysia I stayed home for 2 years so I Teacher Assistant vacancy so I sat for the job test and passed the school with his knowledge in technology and his ability to
was volunteering for the United Blind Persons of Fiji and I was and joined Lautoka School for Special Education where I teach connect with students at all level.
appointed as the President of the Western Division in 2014. Braille and computers studies with the support of screen “As a vision impaired teacher he is an asset for us because
“I again received a scholarship to study in Japan in 2017 reader .” in the Western division this is the only school with vision im-
for leadership Course fully sponsored by DUSKIN , for 11 Sharma is currently pursuing a Diploma in Special Inclu- paired students.
months. “ I returned and it was still hard for me to get a job sive Education from the University of the South Pacific and “He does not only teach Braille but literacy numeracy as
in Fiji and in the process I got an opportunity to study in In- his advice to people with challenges is to never count on their well using Braille and during the Covid lockdown he played a
donesia for a month , massaging course Intermediate level, disabilities but to look at their abilities. vital role where he prepared worksheets and Braille activities
traditional Indonesian Massage.” Meanwhile the Head Teacher of Lautoka School for Special which he taught via zoom classes,” Mr Pillay informed.
“When I returned from Indonesia I heard about the Band A Education Kailash Pillay considers Sharma to be an asset to

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 12 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Pattie makes Drasa Avenue proud Mangroves to benefit Namoli Village

SI Lautoka club members and their volunteers planting mangrove seedlings along the
Drasa Avenue’s Queens Gold Award winner Katie Pattie with her proud mother Monica Namoli coastal area. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
Pattie. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
Sanjay Goundar the people of Namoli village.
Maika Kasami that came her way.”
A proud mum Monica Pattie revealed the “The planting of mangroves has been
prize of visiting ‘Her Highness’ Queen Eliz- Amongst the various benefits of man- planned in such a way so that there is a space
Katie Pattie wants to work with animals and
abeth II motivated her daughter to take part. groves one of the most important one is created in the middle for the boats pulled up
the environment when she grows up.
“When she chose to do about the frontline bringing the food source closer to the sea- to the shore for protection during strong cur-
However, the Year 8 student of Drasa Ave-
workers we decided to do a strong one be- shore. rents and cyclones.”
nue School (DAS) showed that she is a bril-
cause they were the hidden force behind the This specialty of the mangroves was Meanwhile, according to SI Lautoka Pres-
liant essay writer first and a veterinarian or
pandemic and we told her to just use her imag- shared by the Ministry of Forestry’s Forest- ident Zareena Bi the members decided to
zoologists later.
ination and put herself in their shoes and she er Extension Officer Setareki Namuloilagi mark this year’s Fiji Day by planting the
Pattie was among the 171 students in the
got hold of the ideas. during the mangrove planting exercise by mangrove seedlings.
world to have scooped a gold medal in the
“We encouraged her to look through the the Soroptimist International (SI) Lautoka “We plan to plant 10,000 mangrove seed-
Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition
newspapers and read their stories. We liked Club members at the Namoli Village fore- lings this year and so far we planted around
2021 and part of the 25,648 participants who
the way she was progressing so it just rolled shore on October 9. 5,000 seedlings.
took part in the competition globally.
out, “she highlighted. According to Namuloilagi the people of “Since our projects are all related to the
“I wrote the essay at the height of the pan-
DAS head teacher Sanjeeta Kumar said they Namoli Village currently go a long distance Sustainable Development Goals this is a
demic. I feel very excited and happy. I’m very
were not surprised by Katie’s achievement. into the sea to catch fish and crabs for their unique opportunity for us to focus on SDG
grateful for this opportunity in competing
“We are really proud of her achievement. meals but once the mangroves flourish it will 13, climate action.
with everyone worldwide and it was a good
She has been an outstanding student for the bring the fish and crabs closer to the people. The president added that they initially
experience to write,” Pattie said.
school and she has been taking part in various “What we will do today will not only less- planted the seedlings in March this year but
“Well my essay was about frontline work-
other competitions,” Kumar informed. en the climate impact to help our country could not continue the exercise due to the
ers, it was a diary of a nurse and what she went
and the world but it will also greatly benefit Covid 19 restrictions.
through, the hardships and all the challenges

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
13 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 14 NEWS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Lucrative Indian scholarships for Fijian students

Second Secretary of the Indian High Commission Ashok Singh (2nd from left) and consular Second Secretary of the Indian High Commission Ashok Kumar Singh (right) handed over a
services officer Gaurav Verma conducting the consular camp at Girmit Centre in Lautoka. television set and a number of modern Indian photo frames to the Fiji Girmit Council secretary
Photos: Sanjay Goundar Selva Nand

Sanjay Goundar
The Indian High Commission in Fiji is urging Fijian
students to take advantage of the lucrative scholarships
offered by the Government of India to study at world re-
nowned prestigious universities in India.
A consular camp was organised at Girmit Centre in
Lautoka by the embassy on October 16 where Indian na-
tionals and Fijian nationals residing in the western divi-
sion were given the opportunity to enquire and consult
about passport services, visa services, Overseas Citizen
of India (OCI) card and any other consular services.
Second Secretary of the Indian High Commission
Ashok Kumar Singh revealed that people from the west
have difficulty in going to Suva during this current pan-
demic so they decided to organise the one day consular
camp in Lautoka.
He informed that the embassy did organise similar con-
sular camps in Lautoka and Labasa in 2014.
Mr Singh revealed they also gave Fijian students in the
western division to get first-hand information on very at-
tractive scholarships available for them in India.
“We have 30 scholarships available for those Fijian
students completing year 13 this year.
“All this scholarships are for world renowned presti-
gious universities in India which are rarely available for
students in India
“Fijian students getting these lucrative scholarships
will be provided everything from air fares to accommo-
dation along with their tuition fees,” he informed.
In addition the Government of India is providing 100
small scholarships for technical spaces as well as in the
fields of Ayurveda and Yoga.
Meanwhile, the embassy also provided a television set
and a wide range of photo frames depicting modern In-
dian to Fiji Girmit Council to be used at Girmit Centre.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

15 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021

HEAD OFFICE- 40 VITOGO PARADE, P.O.BOX 5894, LAUTOKA

PHONE- 666 6328, MOBILE- 9929 328, 9929 329, 9929 327
BRANCHES- TUKANI ST, LAUTOKA, 6668 187,
SAHU KHAN ST, NADI-8681 514,
RAKIRAKI VAILEKA RD- 9146 740.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 16 DIWALI SWEET RECIPES OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

CHOCOLATE COCONUT BALLS JALEBI Method:

- Mix together flour, yoghurt
Ingredients : - and cardamon in a dish.
- Add enough water to make a batter.
Ingredients:
• 1 packet (250g) of milk arrow - Cover and set aside for 4 hours.- - Add vanilla and
root biscuits food colouring - to the batter, mix well.
1 and a 1/2 cup self raising flour
• 1/3 cup (40g) of cocoa powder - Make a syrup by boiling water and sugar.
1 cup plain yoghurt
• 1/2 cup (45g) of desiccated coco - Warm up ghee.
1 tblspn. vanilla essence
nut (plus a little extra for rolling - Take a piping bag or a kitchen funnel
1 tspn. food colouring
the alls in) - and fill mixture in. Keep finger over funnel/bag end
3 cardamon pods - crushed
• 1 tin (395g) of condensed milk to prevent dripping.
water for batter
- Release over hot ghee in spirals.
2 cups ghee for frying
Method - Cook both sides on medium heat.
• Crush the biscuits and place into a mixing bowl - Remove from ghee and transfer to warm syrup.
Syrup:
• Add cocoa and coconut, stir together then add condensed milk - Let jalebies soak for a couple of minutes,
2 cups water
• Take small amount of mixture and roll into a ball, then roll through - remove and serve.
2 cups sugar
extra coconut
• Continue with the rest of the mixture, place the chocolate balls on a
plate and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. COCONUT ICE
Ingredients
Almond Seera
250g Sweetened Condensed Milk
Ingredients (Serve 4-6) 250g Golden Icing Sugar (sifted)
200g Desiccated Coconut
1 cup of coarse Flour Wheat
1-1/2 cup of Blanched Almonds Method
1 teaspoon of Cardamom (Elaichi) Powder
¼ teaspoon of Crushed Saffron Strands 1. Mix together the condensed milk, icing sugar and desiccated coconut in
1 tablespoon of Warm Milk a large bowl.
8-10 blanched Almonds, finely chopped into slivers 2. Break small pieces of the dough and cut into square shapes.
1-1/4 cup of Allowrie 100% Pure NZ Ghee 3. Dust with desiccated coconut.
3 cups of Water 4. These will keep for up to a month at least, if stored in an airtight con-
1 cup of Sugar tainer.

Preparation:

1. Dissolve the crushed Saffron in the warm milk and keep it aside for some time.
2. Now dry and make a powder of blanched almonds. Save 10 almonds for the purpose of garnishing.
SEIHNA
3. Melt some ghee in a large and heavy pan.
Ingredients :
4. Add some flour to the ghee. Stir and fry the mixture for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add some almond powder to the mixture and again stir and fry the mixture till it becomes golden and gives a
10 taro leaves (washed)
nice aroma. The mixture should be stirred continuously.
1/2 cup uradh dhal (soaked overnight)
6. Add some water and again stir and cook it.
1/2 onion (optional)
7. Add some sugar to the mixture.
Juice of 1 lime
8. When the ghee starts to exude then add some cardamom and saffron to the mixture.
3 chillies
9. Now stir and place the prepared dish into the serving dish. Garnish with chopped almonds.
3 cloves garlic
1 tspn. salt
Gujiya water, estimate
Ingredients
• 17.6 oz. / 500 g. all-purpose flour Method :
• 6 to 7 tbsps. ghee
• 1 1/2 cup coconut (freshly grated) - Grind dhal
• 17.6 oz. sugar - Add lime juice and salt
• 1/2 cup water - Make a paste of garlic, onion
• 1/2 cup small raisins (finely chopped) - and chillies and add to ground dhal
• 1/2 cup cashew (finely chopped) - Add some water to make it moist, like a paste
• 1/2 cup almonds (cut into very thin slivers) 6. Add the coconut, raisins, cashews, almonds, and
- Smear dhal paste on the wrong side of a taro leaf.
• 1/2 tsp. ground cardamom cardamom to the syrup and mix well. Remove from
- Take another leaf, put paste on and place the second leaf on top of the
• Vegetable oil or ghee for deep frying fire and place aside to cool.
first one. Repeat spreading the paste on every single leaf until about 5
Steps to Make It 7. Divide the prepared dough into equal-sized portions
leaves are done
1. Gather the ingredients. and hand-roll them into balls.
- Roll up tightly, plastering loose ends with the dhal paste
2. On a flat dish, mix the flour and ghee to form a 8. Flatten the balls out into circles about 4 to 5 inches
- Tie with a string and steam for about 30 to 40 minutes
crumbly dough that just holds together. wide.
- Remove string, cut into 1/2 inch slices and deep fry in oil a couple of
3. Add water a little at a time and knead to form a firm 9. Put a heaped tablespoon of filling in the center of
minutes on each side or until slightly golden in colour.
dough. When done, cover the dough with a damp tea each circle and fold over into a semi-circle. Pleat the
towel or muslin and put aside. edges to seal. Repeat the filling process for all the
Note: Serve with any chutney.
4. Toast the coconut on a very low flame until it is a circles.
It can also be served without frying.
pale reddish color. Put aside. 10. Once all your dough and filling is used, heat oil or
Can be coated with rice flour and then fried.
ghee over a medium flame and deep fry the gujiyas.
5.Mix the sugar and water in a pan and cook until the
11. Drain them on paper towels and store in an airtight
sugar is fully melted. Allow it to thicken slightly.
container.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 17 DIWALI SWEET RECIPES OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Gulab Jamun Besan Ladoo

Ingredients: Ingredients:

1. 1 tin Condensed milk 1. ChannaBesan or Pea Besan (Gram Flour)

2. Elachi 1 tsp 2. Sugar
3. Jaifar 1/4 tsp 3. Food Color (Red and Green)
4. Self raising Flour 3 cups 4. Elachee
5. Butter/Ghee 5. Jaifar
6. Sugar 2 cups 6. Oil/Ghee to fry
7. Water 4 cups 7. Powdered Milk
8. Oil to fry 8. Water
9. Vanilla 1 drop
Method:
Method:
1. Pour the flour in a basin and add water to make a thick batter.
1. Ground the elachi and jaifar, make it into powder. 2. If you want in different colors than pour the batter in 3 different basin and add a few drops
2. Sieve the flour in a bowl. of food colour to each and mix well.
3. Melt the butter or ghee to be used and cool it. 3. Heat Oil or ghee and Pour the batter in drops using a perforated spoon.
4. Open the condensed milk can and pour the content in a clean empty bowl. 4. Deep fry till light brown.
5. Add the powdered elachi, jaifar and vanilla to the condensed milk. 5. Break the bigger chunks into smaller pieces (You can lightly blend it).
6. Add the melted ghee to the condensed milk. 6. Pour sugar in a pot and add water, boil this for approximately 15 minutes and make a 2 string
7. Use a spoon to mix the ingredients added to condensed milk. consistency syrup.
8. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and mix well. Repeat this process till the dough is stiff 7. When the syrup is luck warm temperature, add powdered milk, powdered elachee and pow-
enough to be kneaded. dered jaifar.
9. Knead the dough well (you can also use a few drops of ghee if needed). 8. Pour this syrup mixture over the fried besan and make balls.
10. Pour sugar and water in a pan and boil it for 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat to make 9. Serve.
syrup (bubbles will form while boiling).
11. Take small pieces of dough and make round long shaped gulabjamun with your hands
(approximately 1/2 cm wide and 3 cm long).
RASGULLA
12. Heat oil and fry the gulabjamun on medium heat till golden brown.

Barfi
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
1. 1 pkt milk powder
1 packet powdered milk, ¾ cup self raising flour Elachi 2 tbsp , Jaifar 1 tbsp, Dahi/Yoghurt
2. elachi powder 1tsp
3. Jaifar powder 1/2 tsp 1/2 cup 2 tbsp Ghee, 3 tbsp Semolina/Suji, 3/4 Cup Liquid Milk , Oil to fry, 2 tbsp ghee (extra),
4. Ghee 1/2 cup Sugar 5cups, Water 4 cups
5. Liquid milk 1/2 cup
6. 3 cups sugar Method :
7. water 1/1/2 cup Pour the powdered milk, flour, suji, elachi & ghee in a bowl and mix well. Pour yoghurt and
milk and make dough. (dough will be extra soft at this stage) Cover and keep dough aside for
Method:
1. In a bowl pour powdered milk, elachi, jaifar and ghee and mix well with hands. half an hour for suji to rise and dough to become of right consistency. Make balls, use the (ex-
2. Sprinkle liquid milk little by little and mix with a soft hand. Repeat this process. No tra) ghee in this step. In low heat fry the balls till brown. Pour water and sugar in a pot and boil
lumpss should be formed. If lumps form, you will need to sieve it.
to make syrup. Add the balls in the syrup. Store it in a cooler and serve cold..
3. Mix water and sugar ina a pot and boil till syrup is sticky.
4. Pour the syrup in the powdered milk mixture and mix well and spread this on a tray.
5. Make the square marks to cut it into pieces when it is still soft because it will be hard to
cut when it is hard.
Peda
Ingredients
Murku 1. Powdered Milk 500g
2. 1 tinned Condensed milk
Ingredients:
3. Powdered Elachi 1 tbsp
4. PowdredJaifar (nutmeg) 1/4 tsp
1. Flour
5. Icing Sugar 1/2 cup
2. Jeera
and steam it for 15 minutes. 6. Ghee/Butter 2 tbsp
3. Roasted Jeera Powder
3. When it’s steamed, cool it and put it in a
4. Oil
basin, pound it and sieve again. Method:
5. Salt
4. Add Jeera, Jeera powder, salt, Chillies,
6. Chillies
garlic and mix well. 1. Pour Condensed Milk in a basin.
7. Garlic
5. Add water and make dough. 2. Add Nutmeg, Elachi and butter to condense milk and stirr well.
8. Water
6. Stuff the dough in murku maker. 3. Add icing sugar and mix well again.
7. Heat oil and pour the dough through 4. Sprinkle milk powder and mix till you can make a hard dough.
Method:
murku maker in circular motion. 5. Mix the dough well and make many small round doughs, the size of a coin.
8. Fry this till light brown. 6. Put it in a container and store in fridge.
1. Sieve flour.
9. Ready to serve 7. Serve
2. Tie the sieved flour in a clean thin cloth

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

18 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 19 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Diwali: Celebrating the Light of Wisdom

Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates the victory of good
over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
Lamps are lit on this day not just to decorate homes, but also to
communicate a profound truth about life — when the darkness
within is dispelled through the light of wisdom; the good in us
wins over the evil.
Diwali, in essence, is celebrated to kindle the light of wis-
dom in every heart, the light of life in every home, and bring a
smile on every face. Diwali is the shortened form of Deepavali,
which literally means rows of lamps. Life has many facets and
stages to it. It is important that we throw light on all of them,
for if one aspect of our life is in darkness, we cannot express
life in its totality. The rows of lamps lit on Diwali remind us
that every aspect of life needs our attention.
Lighting Good Qualities
Every lamp that we light is symbolic of a good quality. There
are good qualities in every human being. Some have forbear-
ance, some have love, strength, generosity; others have the
ability to unite people. When all these qualities are lit, awak-
ened, that is Diwali. Don’t be satisfied with lighting one lamp;
light a thousand! If you have the value of service in you, don’t
be satisfied only with that. Light the lamp of wisdom in your-
self and acquire knowledge. Awaken all the facets of your be-
ing.
Letting Go
Another profound symbolism of Diwali is in lighting fire- Diwali the festival of lights is a time where people should relook at their deeds, light their path towards righteous and embark
crackers. In life, you often become like a firecracker, waiting on a noble journey of serving the mankind
to explode with your pent-up emotions, frustration and anger.
When you keep suppressing your emotions, cravings and aver- all differences. Happiness and wisdom have to spread in soci- dawns, it gives rise to celebration. Celebration is the nature
sions are bound to reach a point where they explode. Bursting ety, and that can happen when all come together and celebrate. of the spirit and every excuse to celebrate is good. For the one
crackers is a psychological exercise from ancient times to re- Even if one member of the family is shrouded in darkness, you who is not in knowledge, Diwali comes only once a year, but
lease bottled-up emotions. When you see an explosion outside, cannot be happy. You need to kindle wisdom in every member for the wise, Diwali is every moment and every day.
you feel similar sensations within as well. Along with the ex- of your family. Extend it to every member of society, every For the one who is not in knowledge, Diwali comes only
plosion, there is a lot of light as well. When you let go of these person on the planet. once a year, but for the wise, Diwali is every moment and
suppressed emotions, the light of knowledge dawns. Spirit of Service every day. This Diwali, celebrate with knowledge and take a
Being in the Present Any celebration is incomplete without the spirit of service. sankalpa (vow) to serve humanity. Light the lamp of love in
Diwali means to be in the present — dropping the regrets of Whatever we have received from the Divine we should share your heart; the lamp of abundance in your home; the lamp of
the past, the worries of the future, and living in the moment. it with others, for it is in giving that we receive. That is true compassion to serve others; the lamp of Knowledge to dispel
The sweets and exchange of gifts symbolize forgetting the celebration. the darkness of ignorance and the lamp of gratitude for the
bickering and negativities of the past, and renewal of friend- Diwali is a time when you throw light on the wisdom you abundance that the Divine has bestowed on us.
ship for the times to come. A true celebration means dissolving have gained and welcome a new beginning. When true wisdom

Di
Diwali Message by National Scouts Commissioner &
National Coordinator – Messengers of Peace/Asia
Pacific Regional Core Team Member
Mr. Kailash Pillay

“DEEPAWALI”, an exciting time of the year that brings the whole nation together to
celebrate the victory of good over evil. As we go through this deadly pandemic of COVID
19, let us unite and support every individual by spreading the message of peace. A great
man once said “Mankind must remember that peace is not God’s gift to his creatures; peace
is our gift to each other.” Occasions such as Diwali provide us with this opportunity to
connect with beings around us to enable and uplift those that need support and guidance.
On behalf of the National Scouts Association and the National Messengers of Peace
Team, I wish the readers of this City Star Newspaper 2021 Diwali Edition a peaceful read-
ing and also wish all the readers a very HAPPY DEEPAWALI. As the National Coordina-
tor, I would like to let us understand and move forward with the current pandemic that has
taught us a lot of positive lessons.
In 2021, as we heal from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are inspired to think creatively and
collectively about how to help everyone recover better, how to build resilience, and how to
transform our world into one that is more equal, more just equitable, inclusive, sustainable,
and healthier. The pandemic has been accompanied by a surge in stigma, discrimination,
and hatred, which only costmore lives instead of saving them: the virus attacks all without
caring about where we are from or what we believe in. Confronting this common enemy of
humankind, we must be reminded that we are not each other’s enemy. To be able to recover
from the devastation of the pandemic, we must make peace with one another. And we must
make peace with nature. Despite the travel restrictions and economic shutdowns, climate
change is not on pause. What we need is a green and sustainable global economy that pro-
duces jobs, reduces emissions, and builds resilience to climate impacts.
Diwali is a way of celebrating the day by spreading compassion, kindness, and hope in
the face of the pandemic. Let us stand together against attempts to use the virus to discrim-
inate or hate.

HAPPY DIWALI !!!

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

20 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 21 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021

Diwali Message from President of Lautoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry Pyara Singh.
Diwali is about discovering the
knowledge of everyone’s infinite
potential and dispelling ignorance.
Diwali is also resplendent of the
dawn of knowledge through the in-
ner light that is the enlightenment of
the soul.
As the Lautoka Chamber of Com-
merce president and managing di-
rector of Lautoka General Transport,
I believe this has never meant so
much considering the Covid19 pan-
demic that has ravaged the world.
The spiritual factor as per the Ve-
danta is that every devout Hindu has
to fill his heart with the oil of love,
light the wick with knowledge of
truth and ward off ignorance.
It further states that we can rekin-
dle the light in many hearts just like
a diya which can light many diyas
with its light never dimming.
May the Goddess of Wealth
Lakshmi Bless Fiji and its People.
On behalf of the Lautoka Cham-
ber of Commerce, we would like to
spread the messages from the Ve-
danta to this beloved nation of ours.
Diwali or Dipawali was India’s
biggest and most important holiday.
The festival gets its name from the
clay lamps (deepa) in a row (avail)
in that Indians light outside their
homes to symbolise the inner light
that protects from spritual darkness.
The Diwali Festival is the biggest
and important festival that spreads
the light of happiness across the
world.
Over the centuries, Diwali had
become a national festival that was
also enjoyed by Non-Hindu com-
munities similar to hear in Fiji.
History says that it was on this
auspicious day that GURU Hargo-
bind, the sixth Sikh Guru was freed
from captivity of Jahangir, the Mu-
gal Emperor.
Sikh also celebrate Diwali to com-
memorate the laying of the founda-
tion stone for the Golden Temple in
1577.
In the mordern day world, Diwali
celebrations are not just confined to
India but are celebrated by Indians
across the globe with the same fes-
tive spirit.
For a diverse nation like Fiji,
where all people live in harmony as
Fijians, the spirit of Diwali would
bring in that extra bond.
This is especially so with many
countries divided along ethnic and
religious lines so we are grateful
that we live in this beautiful country
Fiji which we call home.

Diwali Message by USP Lautoka Campus Director Dr Pramila Devi

A Focus on Inner Light lights reach and illuminate many hearts. May it light up hearts and bring
us endless joy, prosperity, health, wealth and peace forever.
I wish one and all a blessed Diwali and prosperous new year.
Diwali, which symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness,
good over evil and knowledge over ignorance and is celebrated by people
all over the world by having festival of lights, fire crackers, feast, sweets, “Diwali is a symbol of hope for mankind.
and joy of sharing will have a different experience this year as the world
and the people of Fiji respond to COVID 19. May it bring universal compassion, inner joy
In light of numerous deaths, illnesses, separation of families, and loss
of jobs to many during this pandemic, we pray that the festival of lights
of peace, love and awareness of unity to all”
guide us towards the inner light in our hearts! As we celebrate Diwali
and pray for our families and others, may the divinity of the festival of

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

22 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Spiritual
Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, falls on the day of ‘Amavasyaa’,
when the moon does not rise and there is darkness all around. Light,
being symbol of hope and positive energy, indicates the victory of
good over evil. By spreading light in every corner of our premises, we
try to destroy the reign of darkness, on the night of Diwali.
People decorate their premises with diyas, electric bulbs and other

Significance of
decorative electric lighting fixtures, to make their surroundings filled
with colorful light and to make it bright and beautiful. Go through
the following lines to learn more about Diwali and its significance.
What Is Diwali Deepavali - the very name of this festival reveals its
meaning.
The festival is all about the lighting diyas. Later the term ‘Deep-
awali’ became ‘Diwali’. Deepawali or Diwali is also known as ‘the

Diwali
festival of lights’, because on this day, people illuminate their home
and premises with diyas and colorful lights. Celebrated usually in the
month of October or November, Diwali bears significance in the Hin-
du culture as well as among Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains.
The legends connected to the festival are different for different re-
ligions. Importance of Diwali Diwali is the Indian festival that brings
a series of festivals with it. One after another, we get a chance to cel-
ebrate five ceremonious occasions.
The people of all age groups and classes with equal zeal and enthu-
siasm celebrate Diwali throughout India. They put on new apparels

SUGAR FESTIVAL FOUNDATION (FIJI)

and participate in the various activities that are related to Diwali cel-
ebrations.
It is a festival of celebrations such as lightings, crackers, cleanli-

TRIBUTE TO LATE MICHAEL FAGA ness, colorful rangoli making, social gatherings to exchange greetings
and sharing sweets with your loved ones.
Diwali is a festival filled with spiritualism and religious activities,
such as worship of Goddess Lakshmi, worship of Lord Ganesha, wor-
ship of Ma Kali, worship of Lord Chitragupta and worship of Gov-
ardhan Parvat.
The celebration of the five-day long festival, Diwali, begins on As-
wayuja Bahula Chaturdashi and concludes on Kartika Shudha Vijaya.
The first day of this festival begins with ‘Dhan Trayodashi’ or
‘Dhanteras’. After the Dhanvantari Trayodashi the second day of Di-
wali is ‘Narak Chaturdashi’, which is popular as ‘Chhoti Diwali’.
The third day of Diwali, which is also called ‘Badi Diwali’ is the
main day of celebrations of the festival of Diwali. People perform
Lakshmi Pujan (worship of divine Goddess Lakshmi) on this day and
offer prayers to her to bless them with wealth and prosperity.
The fourth day of Diwali is devoted to Govardhan Pooja (worship
of Lord Govardhan Parvat). The fifth day of the Diwali is Bhai Dooj,
the time to honor the brother-sister relationship.

“EVERY MAN’S LIFE ENDS THE SAME WAY, IT IS ONLY THE DETAILS OF HOW
HE LIVED AND HOW HE DIED THAT DISTINGUISH ONE MAN FROM ANOTHER”
Ernest Hemingway

Deepawali is a festival of lights, happiness, peace and love for all. During this time we
dearly miss those who are no longer with us.
I, on behalf of all the Executive members, Co-opted members and Trustees of Sugar
Festival Foundation (Fiji), greatly miss and remember Late Michael Faga who was our
executive member, programmes Director and did all compering of the festival for ages.
We have lost a friend, a colleague, a brother and a son so early.
Late Michael Faga joined the Foundation in the year 2004 as a member and later became
executive member and programmes director and continued his voluntary services until the
end (2021).
He compered all the festival programmes without any supervision and guidance. He was
the trainer for the contestants of all the categories. Late Faga entertained each and every
one throughout the festival programmes as such he was liked and loved by all age groups,
all gender and all races basically everyone.
He continuously contributed towards the betterment of the festival, a standard which it
stands now. He was a true community worker and a team player.
Late Michael Faga left a vacuum in the committee which may never be filled, comparing
The Gounder’s Curry House family members during the Diwali
the talent he possessed. His memories will remain with all the members and partners of
celebration at their residence in Kashmir, Lautoka last year.
Sugar Festival Foundation (Fiji). Photo: Sanjay Goundar
I wish you all a Happy Diwali continued friendship respect and love for each other.

PUSP RAJ
PRESIDENT – SUGAR FESTIVAL FOUNDATION (FIJI)
COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS – 005/12
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE –JPW 033
MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF FIJI - 2015
Phone : 9050526

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 23 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Goddess of Deepawali : Lakshmi

Lakshmi or Mahalaxmi ( Mahalakshmi ) is the Hindu God-
dess of wealth, fortune, love and beauty, the lotus flower and
fertility. She is the main deity worshipped during Diwali every
year. Representations of Lakshmi (or Shri) are found in Jain
and Buddhist monuments, in addition to Hindu temples.
Generally thought of as the personification of material for-
tune and prosperity, she is somewhat analogous to the Gre-
co-Roman Aphrodite or Venus, as she also is similarly thought
to have originally “borne of the sea” in her most famous myth,
as did those love goddesses.
Various Avatar of Lakshmi - Consort on Vishnu :
She is the consort of Vishnu and married his incarnations
Rama (in her incarnation as Sita), Krishna (as Rukmini) and
Venkateshwara (as Alamelu). In addition to Rukmini, howev-
er, she was also thought to have incarnated as the milkmaid
Radha, Krishna’s youthful lover prior to his marriage to Ruk-
mini. In Vaishnava traditions, she is believed to be the Mother
Goddess and the Shakti of Narayan.
Goddess Laksmi is the deity of wealth, affluence an ruling
power. In astrology Venus represents Lakshmi, Durga, San-
toshi Ma and Shiva-Parvati. Venus rules over Taurus and Libra
signs. Venus in odd signs represents Lord Shiva.
Venus in even signs represents Lakshmi, Annapurna Parvati,
Vaishnavi Durga, Santoshi Ma etc. When Venus owns Lagna,
5th, 9th and 10th house and when Venus occupies Lagna, 5th,
9th, 10th and 12th house worship of Laxmi may give immense
prosperity.
Lakshmi in Vishnu Purana :
According to the Vishnu Purana, Lakshmi is the daughter of
Bhrigu and Khyaati and resided in Swarga but due to the curse
of Durvasa, she left Swarga and made Ksheersagara her home.
The reappearance of Lakshmi after Samudra manthan and
her marriage to Vishnu thereafter, remain the same. Laxmi is
the power and Maya of Lord Vishnu. In some places She is
seen in two forms, Bhudevi and Sridevi, both either side of
Vishnu.
Bhudevi is the fertility form in which She is Mother Earth.
Sridevi is the wealth and knowledge of Her which is seen with
Narayan. Most people are mistaken that they are separate be-
ings although they are one, Laxmi.

Rangoli tradition of Diwali

Rangoli designing is another very auspicious tradition of Diwali. Rangoli is an art form, orig-
inating in the Indian subcontinent, in which patterns are created on the floor or the ground using
materials such as colored rice, dry flour, colored sand or flower petals. It is usually made during
Diwali or Tihar, Onam, Pongal and other Hindu festivals in the Indian subcontinent. Designs
are passed from one generation to the next, keeping both the art form and the tradition alive.
The purpose of rangoli is decoration, and it is thought to bring good luck. Design depictions
may also vary as they reflect traditions, folklore, and practices that are unique to each area. It
is traditionally done by girls or women. Generally, this practice is showcased during occasions
such as festivals, auspicious observances, marriage celebrations and other similar milestones
and gatherings. In Nepal, Colorful rangoli are made from dyes and are lit up at night outside
peoples homes and businesses.
Rangoli designs can be simple geometric shapes, deity impressions, or flower and petal shapes
(appropriate for the given celebrations), but they can also be very elaborate designs crafted by
numerous people. The base material is usually dry or wet powdered rice or dry flour, to which
sindoor (vermilion), haldi (turmeric) and other natural colours can be added. Chemical colors
are a modern variation. Other materials include colored sand, red brick powder and even flowers
and petals, as in the case of flower Rangolis.
Rangoli’s most important element is Utswdhermita. These are auspicious symbols that have
a central role in the design. The design for generations are passed on as they are made – and
is required to make these symbols. Traditionally, each new generation learns the art and thus a
family keeps the tradition intact. Some major symbols used in Rangoli are the lotus flower, its
leaves, mango, Tue vase, fish, different kind of birds like parrots, swans, peacocks, and human
figures and foliage. Oftentimes Rangoli is made on special occasions like Diwali. Some special
patterns for Diwali Rangoli are the Diya also called Deep, Ganesha, Lakshmi, flowers or birds
of India. The second key element is using the materials used to make the rangoli. The materials
used are easily found everywhere. Therefore, this art is prevalent in all homes, rich or poor.
Normally the major ingredients used to make rangoli are – Pise rice solution, the dried powder
made from the leaves color, charcoal, burned soil was, wood sawdust, etc.. The third important
element is the background. Rangoli use the background of a clear floor or wall or Llype is used.
Rangoli can be made in a yard in the middle, corners, or as a bell is created around.

EMMANUEL M. SAMI CONTRACTOR

Grass Cutting, Drain Cleaning & Maintenance
We wish all our Customers, Friends & Families a Happy Diwali
& a Prosperous New Year

Ph: 666 2284 / Mb: 9214934 P.O Box 5866, Lautoka

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 24
Every festival in India is steeped
deep in history and the festival of
Diwali is no exception. The cel-
ebration of Diwali can be traced
back to ancient India when it was
an important harvesting season.
As the religion developed, various
mythological stories and explana-
tions were attributed to this festival
to give it religious validation. There
are different legends associated with
Diwali, which vary from region to
region in India. Different religious
groups have different reasons to cel-
ebrate the festival.
Legends of Diwali
Following are the Hindu legends as-
sociated with the festival of Diwali:
Return of Ram to Ayodhya
The most popular legend asso-
ciated with Diwali is the legend of
King Ram. Diwali is the day when
Ram returned to Ayodhya following
14 years of exile after defeating the
demon king Ravana who abducted
Sita, wife of Ram. People of Ayo-
dhya were absolutely ecstatic at the
homecoming of Ram and rejoiced
by lighting up their houses and dis-
tributing sweets to each other, a tra-
dition still followed by all those who
celebrate the festival.
Legend of Naraksura
According to this legend, Diwa-
li is the day when Naraksura was
killed by Krishna. It is believed
that Naraksura had availed a boon
of long life from Vishnu. He creat-
ed havoc in all the three words and
started assaulting women. It is said
Deepavali
DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021
Diwali the festival of light
that Naraksura requested Krishna
that his death should be remembered
by all this is the reason why the day
is celebrated as Narakchaturdashi.
Incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi
Goddess Lakshmi was born when
Devtas and Asuras were fighting
over nectar while churning the
ocean. Goddess Lakshmi decided to
give nectar to the Devtas.
Return of Pandavas
It is believed that Pandavas re-
turned to their capital Hastinapur
after twelve long years of exile. And
the occasion was marked by people
by lighting earthen lamps (diyas).
Legend of King Bali
Diwali is also believed to be the day
when King Bali was sent to Patala
by lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar.
Fearing the rising influence of King
Bali Vishnu asked for as much land
as he can measure with three of his
steps. He measured entire earth and
heaven with two steps and by plac-
ing third at head of Bali (at his re- Energy Fiji Limited Navutu depot staff (From left) Reshma Ram, Zareena Bi, Talica Qionibaravilala and
quest) sent him to Patala. Shivagani Shikha during a multiracial Diwali celebration at their workplace last year. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
Coronation of King Vikramditya History of Diwali in Sikhism those princes who would be able to 1577.
It is believed that legendary king Also known as the Bandi Chorr hold the Guru while he is leaving Significance of Diwali in Jainism-
Vikramditya was coronated on the Devas among Sikhs, the festival is the prison would be released along Festival of Diwali is of importance
day of Diwali giving another reason celebrated to mark the release of with him, knowing that all the princ- to the Jains as it is on this day that
to people to celebrate the festival. sixth guru of Sikhs- Guru Hargobind es won’t be able to hold the Guru. Lord Mahavira (Last Jain Tirthan-
Diwali as a Harvest Festival Singh from the Gwalior Fort along The Guru got a garment made which kar) attained Nirvana. It is said
Diwali was initially celebrated as with 52 other Hindu princes in 1619. had 52 strings. Each prince held one that Mahavira attained Nirvana in
the festival of harvest. It is the time When Emperor Jahangir agreed to string and thus the Guru was suc- presence of several gods who en-
when farmers in India reap their release the Guru at the demand of cessful in getting all the princes re- lightened Mahavira and eliminated
harvest and worship the goddess the Sikhs, the Guru announced that leased. Sikhs celebrated this day by darkness from his life. Also, Ganad-
Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity he would not leave without other lighting Golden Temple. Also, the hara Gautam Swami (Chief disciple
& wealth) by offering her portions captivated princes. foundation stone of Golden Temple of Mahavira) gained Kevalgyana
from fresh harvest. Clever Jahangir declared that only was laid on the day of Diwali in (complete Knowledge) on this day.
Wishes Fr
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
25 IN MEMORIAM OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021

Janki Goundar Late Mr Gabrial Subramani

Born: 21/07/1946
Died: 20/06/2002
Wife of Mr Gursamy Goundar & mother
of Coolman Refrigeration Director
Vineet Goundar
Sadly missed this Deepawali by son
Vineet Goundar, Daughter –in- law Ra-
chael, grandson’s Raynal and Rahil
Late Nadesa
(Sada Signwriter)
Sadly missed this Diwali by wife Pus-
pha Wati, sons Ganesh, Nitesh, Sanjesh,
Jainesh, daughter in laws Sandhya,
Payal and grandchildren Gaurav, Dar-
shil, Shronit and Tayra. We pray to the
almighty to give eternal freedom to our
beloved father
& Late Mrs Kamla Mani
Of Vatamai Road, Lovu, Lautoka.
“Cheeti Na Koi Sandesh, Jane Wo
Kaun Sa Desh, Jaha Tum Chale Gaye”
You both are deeply remembered and
sadly missed by your Sons, Daughters,
son in –laws, grand-children, families
from Fiji and abroad.
Late Mrs Shyma Wati
Deeply missed this Deepawali by hus-
band Ashok Kumar, sons Raynil and
Saynil Kumar, only daughter Sangee-
ta, daughter-in-law Kavita Kumar and
only grandson Arush Kumar. Your
presence will be always missed in our
family and we pray for your soul to al-
ways rest in peace.

Born: 28/08/1955 Born: 08/08/1984

Born: 01/11/1982
Called to Eternal Rest: 02/04/1992
In loving memory of Miss Ashika Devi
Singh, daughter of Late Mr. Prem Singh of
Vitogo, Lautoka.
Sadly missed this Diwali by mom Geeta,
Brother Ranil Singh and Sister Arti Singh.
We miss you.
May your Soul Rest in Peace.
Called to Eternal Rest: 20/07/2005
In loving memory of Mr. Prem Singh of
Vitogo, Lautoka, son of Late Mr. and Mrs.
Bhagwati Singh.
Sadly missed during this Diwali by wife
Geeta, son Ranil Singh and daughter Arti
Singh.
We miss you.
May your Soul Rest in Peace.
Called to Eternal Rest: 09/05/2010
In loving memory of Mr. Pranil Prakash
Singh, son of Late Mr. Prem Singh of Vi-
togo, Lautoka.
Sadly missed during this Diwali by mom
Geeta, Brother Ranil Singh and Sister Arti
Singh.
We miss you.
May your Soul Rest in Peace.

Late Mr Narayan Nagaiya & Mrs Latchmamma

Sadly missed this Diwali by Eldest son Vijay Gounder,
Daughter –in-law Roselyn Gounder, daughter Saloch-
na Devi, son-in-law Sri Nivasan Mani, son Rajesh
Goundar, daughter-in-law Sheetal Goundar, son Sanjay
Goundar, daughter-in-law Ashika and grandchildren
Krishan, Krishneel, Shivneel, Sheetal, Kunaal, Vineel,
Saakshi and Anshil. We pray to the Almighty that their
soul finds eternal freedom and their blessings remain
upon their children and grandchildren always.
Sanjay Ritesh Padhyachi
Karam Singh (of Lauwaki Settlement Lautoka)
Sadly missed and remembered on this
Died: 22 December 2014
Diwali by Parents Mr & Mrs Sada
It has been four-years since you left
Siwan Padhyachi, two lovely daughters
us. Our silent tears flow but we have
Rani and Sonali, sister Sheetal from
your pictures and memories in our
Canada, brother Ronald and sister-
heart. Love and missed by all families
in-law Manisha and from family and
and friends in Fiji and abroad.
friends from Fiji and abroad.

Location: 15 Tukani Street,

Lautoka
N. N SHARMA’S Ph: 9938908 / 8491188

DRIVING SCHOOL / WATCH REPAIR / BARBER SHOP

Sugar City Driving School
Lady Instructor/ Automatic /
Manual Vehicle
Theory Classes / Practical Classes
We Fit Watch Belts, Batteries & Repair all kinds of Automatic Watches
Happy Diwali & a Prosperous New Year to All
Taxi Hire services
also available

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 26
7s reps drafted in Drua
Maika Kasami
Napolini Bolaca, Ratu Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Taliga and Kalioni
Nasoko are only some of the names from the current crop of 7’s play-
ers who have opted to jump ship and taste the full code in the most
competitive competition of all in rugby union.
The four and the host of other local players contracted will be part
of the historic 2022 season in the Pacific region with the introduction
of the Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika in the Super Rugby Pacific
competition.
The two-Island teams who will have their baptism with fire as early
February, 2022 will join New Zealand’s five clubs and Australia’s
five clubs in a 12-team tournament.
Fijian Drua interim chief executive officer Brian Thorburn said
they were glad to have the services of the sevens players join the
group of National Rugby Championship (NRC) Drua players and
other exciting young talents.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
SPORTS
Fiji Airways Fiji 7s
rep Vilimoni Botitu
runs away to score a
try against the United
States in one of the ear-
lier played tournaments.
Photo- Supplied.
“We are really gaining momentum now as we continue to announce
our Fijian Drua players. Fans will again notice a strong focus on our
young stars coming through our highly efficient domestic high-per-
formance pathways, something we at the Drua and Fiji Rugby are
very proud of.”
Fans will also note the return of former NRC Drua players. Many
of the players know each other and other members of the sevens
team,” Thorburn said.
On the inclusion of Nasoko, Thorburn stated: “Kalione Nasoko’s
story is one of determination and sacrifice. He was playing a starring
role for the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team until an ACL injury in 2019
sidelined him for much of the year. He required surgery, was on six
weeks rest and even needed crutches to move around. But he worked
hard on his rehabilitation, recovery, and fitness to force his way back
into the gold-medal winning team. Nasoko will bring his renowned
line-break and offloading abilities as a centre to the Fijian Drua.”
OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021
NZ, Boks top
in Dubai
Maika Kasami
13-time World 7s series champions New
Zealand and South Africa are the most suc-
cessful teams in at the Emirates Dubai 7s.
Both teams boasting a rich history of the
abbreviated code, will return to their favourite
hunting ground in late November for the start
of the new sevens season.
The two-teams have won the tournament on
seven occasions each since world rugby intro-
duced the points system in the 7s series back
in 1999.
South Africa have won the tournament four
times in the last eight years while NZ have
won twice in the last 11-years.
The third best team is England who have
won four titles on the desert while Fiji is next
with two titles to their name in 2013 and 2015.
However, the recent gold medallists at the
Tokyo Olympic Games have finished as run-
ner-up on six-occasions.
They have won the Plate competition two-
times while settling for the Shield once in
2018.
For this year’s tournament scheduled for the
26th-27th November, South Africa is expect-
ed to be one of the top ranked sides follow-
ing their back to back wins in Canada which
eventually handed them their fourth World 7s
series title.
The tournament was cancelled for the first
time last year due to impacts of the COVID-19
pandemic.
 27 SPORTS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

FRU plans early start next season

Maika Kasami

The Fiji Rugby Union wants to kick-off its

2022 domestic season as early as March and
has urged its affiliated unions to focus on its
off-season training and prepare accordingly.
FRU chief executive officer John O’Con-
nor said the parent body will be working with
the unions to ensure they are in full-compli-
ance of the Safe Return to Train and Play pro-
tocols before they officially kick-off the new
season next year.
O’Connor announced in a press release that
they would not resume domestic competition
this year for safety
“Even though we have received the approv-
al and Certification for our ‘Safe Return to
Training and to Play’ on October 1 after thor-
ough consultation and careful consideration,
we have decided to cancel all our domestic
competition for 2021,” Mr. O’Connor high-
lighted.
“From Monday 4th October we were al-
lowed to commence non-contact training in
the field and training in the gym with limited
numbers of 20 people at any one time, only
for fully vaccinated players, coaches and man-
agement of Teams.
“We expect full contact training to be al- With Fiji Rugby Union confirming the cancellation of the Skipper Cup competition this year, the focus has been on the participation of our
lowed when Fiji achieves 80% of full vaccina- Fijian Drua side in the Super Rugby Pacific competition in 2022. Photo- Maika Kasami.
tion and we look forward to the announcement
minimum of 5 to 7 weeks contact training pri- guidelines of our Safe Return to Train and cater for the upkeep of this vaccination data
of such relaxation. When such an announce-
or to any competition which will take us into Play and have advised all our Affiliate Unions and also have process to ensure full compli-
ment is made, fully vaccinated players and
early December this year, it’s impossible to that we will not be recommencing our Skip- ance to all COVID-19 restrictions before they
their Coaches will be allowed to commence
commence and complete any form of domes- per, Vanua and the Women’s Competition this commence any competitions. He said they are
full contact training.”
tic competition safely this year. year.” however planning to host the final tournament
The CEO of Fiji Rugby further added “Af-
“We have seriously considered player wel- O’Connor said they have also urged all their of the Super 7s Series in November and will
ter thorough consultation with all stakeholders
fare and safety especially since there has been affiliated Unions to update the vaccination be confirming the details in due course. “I also
and after discussions with Unions and taking
no training for the last six months and the im- status of everyone involved in their respective wish to especially thank our sponsors for their
into consideration that World Rugby and Fiji
portance of ensuring compliance to the strict Unions and ensure there is a process to support and assistance” he added.
Rugby ‘Return to Play’ protocols require a

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 28 SPORTS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Fiji football team remains in 161

BLUE - MAROON
HARDWARE

Nadi’s Krishna Sami in

action against Labasa
during one of the earli-
er played tournaments
at Churchill Park in
Lautoka.

Maika Kasami Location: Shop # 105 The Hub Corner

of Dravuni Street & Sukanaivalu Road,
The Fijian football side remains in 161 spot following the latest FIFA world ranking released Lautoka.
on September 16. Contact: Mobile: 999 2651 (Ajay) / P: 665 0400
With no recent competitive fixtures due to Covid19 restrictions and for other reasons, the Email: blumaroonhardware@outlook.com
national side has remained in a stagnant position for a while now.
Apart from New Zealand who are ranked 121, Solomon Islands are the best ranked team
amongst the Island countries on 140, Vanuatu (163), PNG (164) and New Caledonia (155) and
Tahiti (159).
Former Oceania giants Australia are ranked third in the Asian region on 32.
Belgium are the current world number 1 followed by Brazil (2), England (3), France (4), Italy
(5), Argentina (6), Portugal (7), Spain (8), Mexico (9) and Denmark (10).
Former world champions Germany have dropped to be ranked 14th in the world.
Meanwhile, the Fijian football team have marched into camp at the academy in Ba to prepare
for the 2022 world cup qualifiers to be held in Qatar early next year.
Digicel Bula Boys team manager Anushil Kumar said the first batch of players began training
with the national team.
“20 players have been training under the watchful eyes of Coach Flemming Serritslev and
new technical director Timo Jankowski with strict health measures and protocol in place.”
Fiji FA is ready to resume with its domestic competitions with the first priority being the com-
pletion of the Digicel National League.
Lautoka are the current league leaders and they are expected to face Labasa in the final match We wish all our Customers, friends & families a Happy Diwali and a Prosperous New Year
of the first round.
League standings as at October 23- Lautoka 13 points, Rewa- 11, Labasa- 10, Nadi- 9, Ba- 7,
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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 29 SPORTS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

Maika Kasami
LGC to end season on a highsume with strict protocols to be followed by
Three tournaments including the annual
Lautoka Open Championship have been ear-
marked to be staged at the Lautoka Golf Club
in the next two-months.
LGC members were in celebration mode af-
ter government lifted the COVID19 pandemic
restrictions on October 10, Fiji Day.
After months of lockdown and no sports
competitions, club members were back clean-
ing their golf clubs, clearing the course and
itching to compete in their first organised tour-
nament. Diwali Cup and the Club Champion-
ship will be played before the staging of the
much anticipated 89th edition of the Lautoka
Open.
“We are ready to rumble after months of
frustration of being on lockdown because
of the pandemic,” LGC chairman Raymond
Singh said.
“Our members had been voicing their frus-
tration in the prolonged lockdown, but we
thank the Prime Minister and Government for
allowing sports to resume.
“We are ready for competitive golf to re-
fully vaccinated members.
“We are keen to round off the 2021 sea-
son with the Diwali Cup in November, Club
Championship and the ever popular Lautoka
Open which will be played for the 89th con-
secutive year after it was first played in 1931.
Our members are getting the fairways and
greens up to the standard despite no revenue
for over six-months,” added Singh.
He said sports resumed at the right time,
especially with the upcoming celebration of
Diwali festival.
“It is timely as we are a multiracial and re-
ligious country. We hope to mark the festival
with our Diwali Cup to kick start our compe-
tition. We want to be the first club to return
to competitive golf. “We will comply with
Government’s sports regulations. Only fully
vaccinated and full financial members will
be eligible to participate and other Golf Fiji Diwali Cup sponsor Anil Kumar (left) of Anil’s Egg Distributors with LGC president Chong
affiliated club members are invited to come. Lee and Raymond Singh during the tournament last year. Photos- Maika Kasami.
We are happy that in good times and difficult
times our dedicated sponsors have been with competition will also be part of the celebra- 9924 522 or veteran Lautoka golfer Gaffar Ali
us all the way.” Meanwhile, the LGC Cham- tion. Golfers who are interested to compete on 9789 235.
pion versus Champion Diwali Pool table could contact club president Chong Lee on

Ground work begins at LGC

Maika Kasami
Dedicated members of Lautoka Golf Club led by veteran golfer Gaffar Ali are working
around the clock to get the course in tip-top condition before the resumption of the 2021
season.
Overgrown grass coupled with dry greens and fairways has made the work for its members
tough, however, they remain optimistic the course will be playable and up to the standard
required come the Diwali Cup scheduled for November 6.
LGC chairman of trustees Raymond Singh says they are all looking forward to getting back
into action after months of frustration.
“But first we need to get the course back into shape. There is a lot of hard work needed to be
done to beautify our course again and we need the help of all members in carrying this work.
“LGC is a members club and we need hundred percent commitment from the members. I
must thank all those that have taken their time out to help us resume with our 2021 season.”
Meanwhile, Lautoka Open Championship remains as the only organised tournament locally
that has been played every year since its inception in 1931.
There were doubts on the tournament being played this year due to COVID-19 pandemic,
however, the organisers breathed a sign of relieve when the government announced the lifting
of sports restrictions on Fiji Day celebrations.
The date for the 89th Lautoka Open will be released soon.

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 30 SPORTS OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021

Ryan recommends Kolinisau as Coach

Maika Kasami

Former Fiji 7’s coach Benjamin Ryan has

recommended his former captain Osea Kolin-
isau to take up the new Fiji Airways Fiji 7s
head coaching role following Gareth Baber’s
premature exit.
Ryan and Kolinisau formed a winning part-
nership leading the national sevens team to
several victories including the world 7s series
title in the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 seasons
and the first ever 2016 Olympic 7’s gold med-
al win in Brazil
The English man took to the social media
immediately after Baber decided to cut ties
with Fiji Rugby Union.
He posted ‘Osea Kolinisau as new 7s coach
would be awesome’.
Ryan, also in an earlier interview had stated
that Kolinisau’s superb leadership skills can
make him a good coach.
“He (Osea) has always had the respect from
players. When I took up the job in Fiji it took
them about three months to start talking to
me, but luckily what I had was Osea Kolinis-
au, the captain. They didn’t want me to select
him and they said he was a troublemaker. I
had a sense that we would get on and that he
would be the guy who would be my cultural
architect and he and I struck it off immediate-
ly.” Former national sevens captain Paula Dranisinukula tries to fend off a Kenyan tackle during one of the world sevens series tournament
Meanwhile, the Fiji Rugby Union has man game. played earlier. Photo- Supplied.
tasked Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s coach Saiyasi Baber has joined Scottish club Edinburgh as with a ‘heavy heart’, he wished to pursue a to repay this,” said Baber. “The prospect of
Fuli and two-time Olympics gold medallist its new skills and assistant attack coach, just career in 15s. joining an innovative and knowledgeable
Jerry Tuwai to lead the charge for Fiji Airways hours after it was officially confirmed that he “I am very much looking forward to the coaching staff at a top European team, which
Fiji 7s men’s team campaign to the Emirates would be leaving the Fiji Sevens programme. challenges and opportunities which come with has in its ranks some of the best rugby talent
Dubai 7s. Baber who quit Fiji despite a four years of- my new coaching role with Edinburgh. I am in world rugby, excites me enormously. I look
The Welshman whose contract was to offi- fer on the table, will join up with Edinburgh’s extremely grateful to Mike [Blair] and the Ed- forward to adding value to the group, utilising
cially end in November decided to step down coaching group in December. inburgh backroom team for the faith they have my own rugby knowledge and coaching ex-
to concentrate on his new career path, the 15- He had said that while he was leaving Fiji shown in my recruitment and I’m determined periences.”

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

31 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

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32 OCTOBER 25 -NOVEMBER 25 , 2021

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