ONE hundred and eighty years ago, East Indians arrived in British Guiana to work as indentured labourers but, as the years went by, they made and continue to make their mark in the history of the country now called Guyana.

Every year, the Indian Commemoration Trust (ICT) hosts an activity to celebrate the heritage and contributions of East Indians to the development of Guyana.

This year, the celebration called “Pushpanjali” was no different than the previous years. There were many cultural dances and musical renditions that were complemented by messages from prominent professionals at the Monument Gardens on Saturday.
Renowned businessman, Dr. Yesu Persaud, underscored the importance of May, 5, for the East Indians, noting that it is a day which they should use to celebrate the lives of their ancestors who created a foundation for their descendants to thrive.

The young generation was urged to build on what their ancestors have accomplished and live together in unity and peace.

Guyana-born broadcaster, novelist, poet and academic, David Dabydeen reminded the audience of the journey of the East Indians from India to Guyana in 1838.
After a recap of history and the Indentureship system, Dabydeen said the descendants of those labourers have come a far way together.

“When we come to have a wider and deeper understanding of Indentureship, we all came in the same boat as it were; Indians foremost, African indentured labourers, white Europeans, Chinese and Portuguese,” he said, adding that the descendants of those people have risen up mightily and became scientists, nobel prize winners, lawyers and even Presidents.

The ICT as usual awarded five East Indians who have contributed to the success and development of the country, whether in politics, business, law, or social work, etc.
Among those awarded were Komal Samaroo, Victor Insanally, Dr. Seeta Roth, Krishnadat Persaud and Parvatie Singh.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo congratulated the awardees, noting that their success is an indication that East Indian descendants have made a significant contribution to all the affairs of Guyana.