In a heartfelt appeal during the opening of Divali Nagar on October 11, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo urged the nation’s diaspora to return home and contribute to the country’s renewal. Speaking in Chaguanas, Tancoo likened Trinidad and Tobago to ‘our Ayodhya,’ referencing the epic poem The Ramayan, where the Hindu god Shri Ram returned after 14 years of exile to become king. He emphasized that the country’s diaspora, whether born in Trinidad or of Trini ancestry, should bring their skills, resources, and love for the homeland to ignite a new era of hope, prosperity, and justice. Tancoo’s message was clear: ‘Your exile is over. Your Motherland calls for you to come home.’ He called on the diaspora to invest, teach, mentor, and share their experiences to help build a nation that shines as a beacon in the Caribbean and beyond. The minister also urged citizens to banish corruption and greed, embrace fairness, and unite as one people. The Divali Nagar, a cultural festival celebrating the Hindu festival of lights, served as the backdrop for this appeal. Surujdeo Mangaroo, president of the National Council of Indian Culture, highlighted the festival’s role as a ‘national institution of cultural and moral development.’ He stressed the importance of investing in Divali Nagar to preserve values like discipline, respect, and compassion for future generations. Mangaroo pointed out that the festival’s children’s programs act as living classrooms, instilling values that guide young citizens toward responsible and compassionate leadership. This year’s theme, ‘Loka Sangraha’ or ‘Welfare of the World,’ called on attendees to rise above self-interest and act with compassion, justice, and solidarity. The event featured traditional performances, deya lighting ceremonies, and vibrant displays of East Indian culture, underscoring the festival’s dual role as both entertainment and education.
Tancoo’s call to Trinidad and Tobago diaspora – Come back home to build up TT
