Dharmic Sabha commemorates Indian Arrival Day with ‘Sanskriti’ in Berbice

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) commemorated the 187th anniversary of Indian arrival in Guyana with Sanskriti in Berbice — a cultural programme that honours the legends, struggles, successes, and the rich culture and heritage brought to Guyana by East Indians during the indentureship period that began in 1838.

The programme, held on Monday in Berbice, featured various types of Indian dance performances, singing, faith-based presentations, an exhibition of Indian ethnic wear, and narratives reflecting the strength and resilience of Indian ancestors.

Speaking at the event, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, reflected on the immense contributions of the Indian community, particularly the ancestors.

“Today we stand on the foundation and on the shoulders of those who came before us as proud descendants, celebrating all that our trailblazing ancestors have contributed to our beautiful country, Guyana,” she said.

Dr. Persaud added that the indentured immigrants were embodiments of strength and fearlessness.
“I think we are here because they were fearless. In fact, they never cowered to colonialism. In spite of the hardships, the trials, the tribulations, and the challenges they endured — in spite of the pain of losing each other under arduous living conditions and limited freedom — I will say they were fearless, because they preserved what we enjoy today.

It is because of them that we have traditions to maintain. It is because of them that we can celebrate our beautiful culture. It is because of them that our heritage has been preserved so wonderfully,” she added.

Dr. Persaud further emphasised the importance of honouring the elderly population, who embody a wealth of knowledge.
“As our seniors age, as they move into their older years, we must treasure them. We must sit with them and listen to them, as they can share not only words of wisdom but also stories of our history.

If you can, write those words down — capture them — because there are so many unsung heroes and heroines in Guyana who have done remarkably well, quietly changing the lives of others.”

Sanskriti will also be held in Essequibo and Georgetown in the coming week.

On May 5th, 1838, the first group of East Indian indentured labourers arrived at Plantation Highbury, Berbice, in the then British colony of Guiana aboard two ships, the Whitby and the Hesperus, carrying over 400 East Indians.