I have noted an article in the Guyana Chronicle of May 10, 2010 headlined, “Maha Sabha multi-complex centre to be completed by year end.” I view this as a very positive approach to improve the religious, cultural and social values of its members and to the youths in particular, and needs the support of us all.
I wish, however, to correct a statement that the Sabha was established in 1934 and is the first Hindu organisation to emerge in Guyana following the arrival of Indians in 1838. It was not the Maha Saba but the Arya Samaj that was the forerunner of this Hindu organisation in Guyana. The Triumph Village Arya Samaj was the first Arya Samaj movement and was registered under the Friendly Societies Ordinance in April, 1928. It was a very vibrant organisation. A plaque evidencing this still hangs in the Mandir.
My father, the late Pandit Nannoo Persaud, was the President that year. He was indentured to Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara in 1911. He was a Hindi and Sanskrit scholar and his immigration papers confirmed that he was of the Brahmin caste.