Tambura bhajans are an integral part of the cultural and religious fabric of the Indo-Fijian community in Fiji. Tambura bhajans are devotional songs often accompanied by the traditional Indian musical instrument, the tambura (a stringed instrument). These bhajans play a significant role in religious gatherings, festivals, and cultural celebrations among Fiji’s Indo-Fijian population, which traces its roots back to India through the indentured labor system during British colonial rule.

Here’s a closer look at tambura bhajans in Fiji:

1. Religious Significance: Tambura bhajans are primarily devotional songs dedicated to various deities in the Hindu pantheon, such as Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Goddess Durga, and Lord Shiva. These songs are an essential part of religious ceremonies, including prayers (pooja), aarti (rituals involving the waving of lamps), and religious festivals.
2. Cultural Preservation: Tambura bhajans serve as a cultural bridge, connecting the Indo-Fijian community to its ancestral roots in India. They help preserve the language, music, and religious practices that were brought to Fiji by the indentured laborers.
3. Influence on Festivals: Tambura bhajans are an integral part of various Hindu festivals celebrated in Fiji, such as Diwali (Festival of Lights), Navaratri (nine nights of worship), and Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday). These songs are performed during religious processions, ceremonies, and community gatherings.
4. Community Bonding: Bhajan sessions provide an opportunity for the Indo-Fijian community to come together, share their faith, and strengthen social bonds. These gatherings often involve group singing and communal prayers.
5. Musical Instruments: The tambura, a long-necked stringed instrument, is a key element of tambura bhajans. It provides the musical accompaniment to the devotional songs and creates a distinctive sound that is instantly recognizable.
6. Lyrics and Poetry: Tambura bhajans feature lyrics that are steeped in religious and spiritual themes. The poetry often conveys deep devotion, love for the divine, and messages of peace and harmony.
7. Adaptation and Fusion: While tambura bhajans maintain their traditional essence, they have also evolved over time. Some artists and musicians in Fiji have blended traditional bhajans with contemporary musical elements, creating a fusion of sounds that resonates with younger generations.
8. Transcending Generations: Tambura bhajans continue to be passed down from generation to generation, ensuring their continued relevance and significance in the Indo-Fijian community. Younger members of the community are often encouraged to participate in bhajan sessions to learn about their cultural and religious heritage.
9. Community Events: Tambura bhajans are not limited to religious ceremonies. They are also performed at community events, weddings, and cultural festivals, where they showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Indo-Fijian community.

In summary, tambura bhajans are a cherished tradition among Fiji’s Indo-Fijian community, providing a spiritual and cultural anchor that connects them to their Indian roots. These devotional songs, accompanied by the tambura, are not only a form of religious expression but also a means of preserving and celebrating their unique cultural identity in the diverse and multicultural landscape of Fiji.