On 20th November 2024, Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister in 50 years to visit Guyana. Located on the South American landmass, culturally Guyana is considered part of the Caribbean. Guyana is also a member of CARICOM; a trade bloc of Caribbean nations, whose summit Modi also attended. Modi’s visit was significant as approximately 40% of the Guyanese population are of Indian origin and along with Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago is one of the Caribbean nations where Indians form the largest ethnic group. The bulk of the Indo-Caribbean population are descendants of indentured labourers who arrived from India in the 1800s following the abolition of slavery. Modi’s visit has been welcomed by the Indo-Caribbean community (some of whom now live in North America and the UK) as until now, the Indian state has almost ignored this part of its diaspora.
Though aimed at increasing bilateral trade and other areas of collaboration, Modi’s trip raised the profile of Hindu Dharma in the Caribbean. Though the Indo-Carribean is a multi-faith population, Hindus form the overwhelming majority. Along with visiting temples and a Hindu school, the Indian PM touched upon Hindu traditions that are unique to this region. During the address to community leaders, mention was made of the 7-curry meal, vegetarian dishes prepared during weddings, and pujas served on a lotus leaf. The majority of Indo-Caribbeans originate from Eastern UP, which is home to Ayodhya and hence devotion to Rama dominates their practice. At the same address, the PM opened with Sita Rama, the popular greeting of Caribbean Hindus (used more than Namaste). The speech also touched upon the contribution Guyanese Hindus made towards the rebuilding of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple. Elsewhere, Modi also joined Hindus in reciting Chautals, a traditional style of Bhajans that has roots in Eastern UP and is usually sung during the Phagwa festival (Holi).
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