450 people gather for New Year’s Pooja and substance abuse awareness in Nakasi

Around 450 people gathered at the Gooal Sadhu Hanuman Gadhi Mandir in Nakasi to participate in the Vishwa Shanti Yaag, marking the beginning of the New Year with devotion and reflection.

The event, hosted by the Shree Santan Dharm Central Brahman Sabha of Fiji, also included an essential drug awareness session conducted by the Fiji Police, addressing the growing concern of substance abuse affecting the nation’s future.

Speaking to fijivillage News, Shree Sanatan Dharam Central Braham Sabha of Fiji committee member Pundit Shelvin Vishal Sharma says the gathering at the Hanuman Gadhi Mandir was more than just a celebration; it was a call for spiritual renewal and social responsibility.

Sharma says alongside the Vishwa Shanti Yaag, which filled the air with prayers for peace, the Fiji Police led an enlightening session on the dangers of drug abuse.

He says the new year is a chance to start fresh, a chance to let go of the past and embrace the future.

Pundit Sharma says that they feel as religious leaders it is also their responsibility to throw some light on the nation’s rising crisis, which is substance abuse, in order to protect future generations.

Pundit Sharma says the real high is a healthy life and devotion to our lords.

He adds the event was a powerful reminder that a spiritually enriched community must also be one that actively addresses the challenges that impact its future.