The observance of the 169th anniversary of the East Indian presence in T&T must not proceed unnoticed. And to mark this historic moment, while there have been several academic, cultural and ethnic dissertations, I wish to suggest that our indigenous University of T&T (UTT) undertake a serious research on the presence of both the East Indian and African diasporas here.There is an urgent need to revisit the presence of these two quintessential segments of the population and update our knowledge for this and future generations.
When the Fatel Rozack limped through the Gulf of Paria on Trinidad's western peninsula on May 30, 1845, on board was a capacity cargo comprising 230 labourers principally from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Several other journeys were made. They came. They saw. And they made T&T their home.The human cargo was a group overflowing with that indomitable spirit of human kindness, creativity and resourcefulness. The East Indian arrival has many meanings, some which were the introduction of a different way of life, new kinds of food, musical instruments, songs, dances, religions and religious literature notably the Ramayana, Gita, the Vedas, the Hanuman Chalisa and the Upanishads. The East Indian presence meant food security, economic growth, a monetary and banking system.
The Indian community's strength is in spiritual consciousness, traditions, family structures, holy scriptures, festivals and celebrations of great heroes' birthdays as Ram Navmi, Lord Krishna Janamashtami, Nau Raatri, Shiva Raatri and Divali. They all enhance and add to the promotion of spirituality.There is no doubt that Indian Arrival Day is relevant and important because it highlights the engagement between India and T&T. We must focus on the contemporary aspects of our relationship of what is India and T&T today, and what beckons the future for both countries. It is an opportunity to reflect on how we understand and appreciate each other, individually and collectively.
The Indian community must continue to respect our national institutions of governance, national constitution, laws and other elements of governance. We must do our utmost to adhere and respect the philosophical injunctions of our national anthem, national motto and national flag, for all these are features of the national body politic.We have to build and rebuild organisations–political, social, cultural, economic and religious–and at regular intervals examine how best these organisations or institutions can work for the total development, enrichment and enlightenment of our national character. Happy Indian Arrival Day, 2014.
PARAS RAMOUTAR,
Caparo