On the 3rd of September 2009, thousands of mourners paid their homage to late Pt. Shiv Narayan Hari Prasad an illustrious son of Fiji - the country of his birth and a worthy citizen of Australia, the country of his adaptation.

I have known Mr. Prasad, reverently called Master Ji, for moves then upon decades. He was born on the 29th of November, 1928 at Yako Nadi, a settlement some 6-8 km of Nadi Town in the direction of Sigatoka, Nadroga. His parents eked out a living from a small sugar cane farm. They, like so many Indo Fijians of their generation had an unquenchable thirst to educate their children. Master Ji’s parents sacrifice and his own hard work saw him qualify as a school teacher in 1946 and the following year he embarked on a career which spanned over a period of 38 years.

Master Ji was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth. It was his dedication and industry that saw him reach the highest echelons in whatever field he concentrated his energies. In Fiji a great part of teacher’s time is devoted to extra - curricular activities like sports, some movement and other source of religious work. They are the torch bearers of the community and are looked upon with great respect. Master Ji was no exception and made invaluable contribution in the social religions and educational life of our people. He excelled as a hockey player and was a coach for D.A.V college for a number of years. Master Ji was a recipient of Wood Badge, the highest award in Scout movement for his tireless work in that arena.

He gave years of voluntary service to the St. Johns Ambulance Brigade and was honoured by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II with the award of Order of Serving Brother St.John. Master Ji had reached the highest level in the primary division when he retired as Head Teacher of Dean Bandhu Primary school at the end of 1985. Upon his migration to Australia, Master Ji plunged in the service to the Arya Samaj organisation and is greatly responsible for its achievement in all walks of life. In recognition to his services the Samaj bestowed him with Arya Ratna, the highest award given by that organisation.

More importantly Master Ji was a good husband, responsible father, loving and caring grandfather, a trustworthy friend and a decent citizen. He enjoyed many years of happy married life and left no stones unturned to ensure a secure future for his children. Not much remains to be said on a person’s life. On the death of Raja Dasrath, Guru Washestha told Bharat that one should grieve for those who fail to discharge their duties and gives several examples to fortify his philosophy.

Masterji’s children should find solace in the thought that their father ably discharged his duties to family members, to his community, and the society at large. They should feel blessed to have had a father of Masterji’s caliber.

May God give those near and dear to Masterji the strength to bear such a great loss, and may his sole rest in peace.

Pt. Harish C Sharma