The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) on Tuesday staged its signature cultural event, Sanskriti, at the Indian Arrival Monument in Palmyra, Berbice, to mark 188 years since East Indians first arrived in Guyana.
The event transformed the T-junction landmark into a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and heritage, drawing large crowds eager to celebrate and reflect on the contributions of their ancestors.
Recognised as both a historical site and a growing tourist destination, the monument served as a fitting backdrop for the commemoration.
Delivering remarks at the event, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, who also serves as President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, underscored the importance of preserving Indian culture and traditions as a tribute to the foreparents who arrived in Guyana under the indentureship system beginning in 1838.
“It is only up to us to maintain that. That is the best way to honour those ancestors who came to these shores,” the GHDS President said, urging the preservation of the Hindi language and the continuation of traditions in their “most pristine form”.
The programme highlighted the significance of national observances such as Diwali and Holi, encouraging Guyanese to celebrate these festivals in ways that foster unity, love, and stronger community bonds.
Patrons were treated to an array of traditional Indian delicacies, including the popular “seven curry”, paratha and sada roti, and a variety of sweets such as halwa. Food stalls lined the venue, offering attendees a rich culinary experience that reflected the diversity of Indian cuisine.
Beyond food and entertainment, the event also emphasised the need to educate younger generations about their heritage. Dr Persaud noted that exposing youth to cultural practices ensures that traditions are passed on and appreciated in the future.
“We have been working tirelessly across this country to ensure that there is a sustenance of dharma,” she said, referencing the GHDS’s ongoing efforts to provide cultural and religious education, including training in classical and traditional art forms.
Reflecting on history, Dr Persaud paid tribute to the more than 238,000 indentured labourers who came to Guyana from India between 1838 and 1970, many departing from Calcutta and Madras.
Despite arriving with few possessions, she said they carried sacred texts such as the Ramayana and the Bhagavad Gita, which helped sustain them through hardship.
She stated that the gathering highlighted Guyana’s multicultural identity, noting that the blending of diverse ethnicities, religions, and traditions has created a unique and rich national culture.
“We must never lose national pride,” the GHDS President urged. “Love for country is no different from prayer. Love your country wholeheartedly.”
The event featured cultural performances and included traditional music such as taan singing, along with other artistic expressions celebrating Indian heritage.
The GHDS also extended congratulations to its regional branches across Berbice for their contributions to the event’s success, acknowledging the efforts of organisers, performers, and vendors who brought Sanskriti to life.
