Pacific Harbour & BeqaThe official opening of the Damodar Arts Village marks a major milestone in the revival of Fiji’s iconic Cultural Centre and the transformation of Pacific Harbour into a vibrant hub for culture, lifestyle, and tourism. Redeveloped by Damodar Yatulau Pte Limited, a joint venture between the Damodar Group and Yatulau Company Limited, the Damodar Arts Village celebrates Fiji’s living heritage while introducing new attractions and amenities to enhance the visitor experience.
At the heart of the property lies an authentic Fijian village on an island, complete with a bure kalou (spirit temple), a Chief’s bure, and artisan bures where visitors can immerse themselves in Fijian life and culture. Guests can witness meke performances shows from a pavillion, enjoy cultural storytelling, and experience the dramatic and sacred firewalking ceremony performed by the renowned firewalkers of Beqa — a powerful expression of Fiji’s spiritual tradition and courage.
The first cultural performance show of the Damodar Arts Village is scheduled for Saturday 1st November 2025 at 11.00am. Tickets for the show will be available on www.artsvillage.com.fj, www.ticketmax.com.fj and at the Arts Village reception.
Beyond its cultural offerings, the Damodar Arts Village invites expressions of interest to join its boutique shops, local craft outlets, and cafés designed to attract both tourists and residents. These additions create a lively and welcoming atmosphere that encourages visitors to spend more time in Pacific Harbour — exploring, dining, and engaging with local businesses and artisans.
“The Damodar Arts Village is more than a cultural revival — it’s a destination,” said Dayanand Damodar, Chairman of Damodar Yatulau Pte Limited. “We wanted to restore the spirit of the old Cultural Centre while creating a sustainable attraction that supports local artists, entrepreneurs, and the Pacific Harbour community.”
Located in Pacific Harbour, within easy reach of over one-third of Fiji’s population in the Suva-Nausori corridor, the Damodar Arts Village aims to boost local tourism and economic activity. The development combines authentic cultural experiences with modern lifestyle amenities, positioning Pacific Harbour as Fiji’s premier destination for arts, culture, and leisure. The investment value of this project is approximately F$20million which will create employment (direct and indirect) of 200 people.
“Our partnership unites investment, culture, and community,” said Viliame Leqa, the Chairman for the Yatulau Company Limited. “Together, we’ve redeveloped a place that celebrates who we are as Fijians while offering new opportunities for local employment, education, and creative expression.”
The official launch celebration will feature traditional meke performance, a tour around the village and artisan displays– a fitting tribute to the rebirth of this treasured cultural centre.
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REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.