India’s High Commissioner to Fiji, Gitesh Sarma, says Fijians should celebrate and preserve the country’s cultural diversity.

Mr Sarma was the chief guest at the 88th Sangam Convention at ANZ Stadium in Suva yesterday.

It was his first time at the convention and he reminded citizens to take care of their elders at all times.

“Your ancestors and parents have given you a lot. This is part of our culture and we all should give respect to our parents and elderly.

“This is an exciting time for the country and the Sangam convention has contributed to a lot of things and this time is about looking after the elderly people.”

“I am surprised and happy that Fiji people are maintaining the culture and, of course, Fiji is a special place because it’s a multicultural country.”

Meanwhile, Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam National President Sadasivan Naicker highlighted the theme for 2015 “Sangam Year for the Elderly” and remembered Christians celebrating Easter throughout the country.

“On this auspicious day in the Christain calendar, I wish to quote the Bible in the 10 commandments which says, ‘honour your mother and father and you shall have a long life’. All religions teach us the same.”

Mr Sarma said old age was a serious impediment and elders at their stage of life needed love and care.