Indian Arrival Day in Trinidad and Tobago is often perceived through a narrow cultural and religious lens. Traditionally associated with Hindu rituals and aesthetics, the day commemorates the arrival of East Indian indentured labourers but seldom highlights the diversity within that group. In a recent conversation with Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, senior lecturer in the History Department at UWI, new dimensions of the occasion were explored—particularly through the lens of Presbyterianism.
Beyond Stereotypes: Redefining Representation
Dr. Teelucksingh began by addressing a common misconception: that Indian Arrival Day is solely a Hindu observance. He emphasised that while most indentured laborers were Hindu, a significant minority were Muslims and a small number were Christians, including Presbyterians. This religious diversity challenges the assumption that all Indians who arrived during that period followed the same cultural and spiritual practices.
Acculturation and Cultural Blending
Many Presbyterians have distanced themselves from Indian Arrival Day due to its perceived religious affiliations. However, Dr. Teelucksingh shared that older generations often blended cultural and religious practices—singing bhajans in church, cooking traditional East Indian meals, and intermarrying with people of other faiths. These examples highlight the fluid boundaries between culture, spirituality, and identity.
The Social Role of the Presbyterian Church
The Presbyterian mission in Trinidad and Tobago extended beyond conversion. Dr. Teelucksingh detailed how Canadian missionaries addressed alcoholism, poverty, and disease on the estates. They provided medicine, education, and social services, often helping people regardless of religion or ethnicity. This humanitarian approach attracted people from diverse backgrounds, including Afro-Trinidadians, Chinese, and even former planters.
Shifts in Faith and Practice
Over time, Presbyterian churches have seen a decline in membership, especially among the youth. Dr. Teelucksingh attributes this to changing spiritual expectations—many young people now seek more emotive worship experiences found in Pentecostal and Evangelical churches. He also pointed out the disconnect between younger Presbyterians and the church’s historical legacy, with many seeing the church as a means to academic or social advancement rather than spiritual fulfillment.
A More Inclusive Vision of Indian Arrival
Looking forward, Dr. Teelucksingh advocates for a more inclusive interpretation of Indian Arrival Day—one that recognises the contributions of all ethnic groups affected by indentureship. He emphasised the shared histories of Afro-Trinidadians, Chinese, Portuguese, and others who endured the colonial system. Indian Arrival Day, he suggests, should be a celebration of collective perseverance and national unity.
5 Key Takeaways:
Indian Arrival Day is not exclusively Hindu – Early Indian immigrants included Muslims and Christians, including Presbyterians.
Presbyterianism played a major role in social reform – The church addressed health, education, and social needs on estates, reaching across ethnic lines.
Cultural identity is fluid – Presbyterians blended traditional Indian customs with Christian worship, showing the intersection of religion and culture.
Younger generations are disengaged – Many see church as a social or academic stepping stone rather than a spiritual home.
Indian Arrival Day should celebrate all indentured legacies – The occasion should honour the collective contributions of multiple ethnic groups under colonial rule.