Mosques

Out of 38% of the Indian population, 16% are Muslims.  When the first indentured labourors came to Fiji, there were 22% of Muslims who came on to shore. They dispersed all over Fiji to the then populated areas and finally some came to Suva. The number originally was 70 which has now increased to thousands, in decades.

Of the Muslim place of worship, Mosques are extremely pure places enshrined with intentions only for prayer and to seek utter blessings and forgiveness from the Creator. Every other aspect is dismissed and frowned upon, such as laughter and worldly/unnecessary talk around the Mosque. The Mosque has a peaceful and calm demeanor which makes the entrée for an individual extremely fulfilling and overwhelming in spiritual sense. When entering the grounds, ensure that the head is covered and to remove shoes before entering the holy edifice. Men and women are separate from each other due to religious beliefs and customs. It is advisable to be appropriately covered when entering such a place to offer respects to the people of the Islamic faith.

There are some smaller establishments called ‘Marqaz’ for certain residential areas, which are visited more often then the main Mosques, due to traveling circumstances.

The Mosque located right in the heart of the CBD is frequented by businessmen, University students and stay-at-home individuals who seek refuge in a bigger and more sacred environment than their homes. This was the first Mosque built in the City of Suva and is the pride and joy of the Islamic society here. The second is located in Samabula, a little suburb away from the City with its own shopping centers, little retail shops and restaurants. This is a two storey complex which was built recently and is right next to the Headquarters for Fiji Muslim League, the parent body of all Muslim organizations in Fiji.