The arrival of the Shri Raam Lalla Murti , a statue of Lord Ram, from India was welcomed to Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday. The event coincides with the celebration of 180 years of the arrival of East Indians to the nation.
The festivities aim to foster unity, celebrate human values, and share the universal message of truth, peace, and love. Mayor of Chaguanas Faaiq Mohammed highlighted the significance of this day and the cultural heritage it holds not only for Hindus but for the country as a whole.
“As I stand here my heart turns towards my ancestors, to those who made the journey from India to these shores generations ago. Exactly 108 years ago. They came with nothing but faith, culture and a vision for better life. Today that vision is alive and well. This moment is not only for the Hindu community, but it is a powerful symbol of our heritage, resilience and devotion for all of Trinidad and Tobago.”
The highly spirited celebrations featured music and dance, encapsulating Trinidad and Tobago’s rich culture. The mayor took the opportunity to call on leaders around the world to lead with love and put humanity first.
“I call on leaders across the world to sit at the table of dialogue instead of the battlefield. War never truly solved anything. It only left behind widows, orphans, hunger and rubble. A single bomb can cost hundreds of thousands, a war can cost millions but peace, peace is priceless and those resources spent on war could build schools feed the hungry and give healthcare to the sick.”