标签： Trinidad and Tobago

Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles recently participated in the Divali Nagar celebrations in Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, on October 16, lighting a deya alongside National Council of Indian Culture president Surujdeo Mangroo and dancer Samara Mohammed. In a heartfelt statement issued on October 19, the eve of Divali, Beckles described the festival as one of the most sacred and auspicious occasions on the Hindu calendar, extending warm greetings to the Hindu community and the nation at large. She emphasized the spiritual significance of Divali, highlighting its themes of light overcoming darkness, knowledge dispelling ignorance, and righteousness triumphing over evil. Beckles underscored the festival’s role in fostering unity, compassion, and hope, particularly during challenging times. She called on leaders to act with integrity, communities to show compassion, and citizens to be beacons of light for one another. As Arima MP and Opposition Leader, Beckles reaffirmed her commitment to building a nation rooted in fairness, justice, and opportunity for all. She concluded by wishing for the divine blessings of Mother Lakshmi to bring peace, prosperity, and purpose to every home, guiding the nation toward a future filled with justice, compassion, and hope.

The festival of Divali, a celebration of light, unity, and the triumph of good over evil, transcends geographical boundaries, uniting Caribbean and South Asian communities worldwide. From the vibrant streets of New York to the serene shores of the Turks and Caicos, and from the bustling neighborhoods of Guyana to the distant villages of Suriname and The Gambia, the diaspora creatively preserves the essence of Divali, blending tradition with modern life in foreign lands.

In Toronto, Devin Latchmana, a Canadian of Trinidadian and Guyanese descent, reflects on the evolution of Divali celebrations. Growing up in a Hindu household in Canada, he recalls a time when the festival was less recognized. Today, Divali is celebrated with grandeur, marked by decorations, traditional foods, and public acknowledgment. Latchmana and his family honor the festival with elaborate rituals, including puja, bhajans, and the preparation of traditional dishes, fostering a sense of pride and community.

In the Turks and Caicos Islands, Shivani Kamble, originally from Mumbai, India, emphasizes the universal values of Divali. For her, the festival is a celebration of unity and the human spirit, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. Kamble hosts an annual Divali party, inviting friends and neighbors to share in the joy, creating a sense of belonging and togetherness.

In Washington DC, Bhisham Persad, an architect and pundit from Trinidad, views Divali as both a cultural and spiritual experience. He highlights the festival’s significance in connecting with one’s inner self and celebrating prosperity and purity. Despite the more private nature of celebrations in the US, Persad remains hopeful for broader recognition, noting recent declarations of Divali as a holiday in California and New York.

In New York, Trinidadian Narda Mohammed finds a deeper spiritual meaning in Divali, despite the challenges of celebrating in a less communal environment. She keeps her traditions alive through food, sharing Trini culture with those around her.

In The Gambia, Catherine Andrews, originally from Trinidad, introduces Divali traditions to her new community, adapting to local resources to create makeshift deyas and preparing traditional Trinidadian vegetarian dishes.

In Guyana, Lakhram Bhagirat emphasizes the importance of family and community in Divali celebrations. He decorates his home with fairy lights and intricate rangolis, preparing traditional sweets and dishes, and lighting deyas to honor the festival.

In Suriname, Rudy Soeroedjlall Ardjoen highlights the unifying nature of Divali, celebrated by people of all ethnicities and faiths. The festival includes cultural events, deya lighting, and communal gatherings, fostering a sense of brotherhood and togetherness.

Across the globe, Divali serves as a beacon of light, unity, and cultural preservation, bringing communities together in celebration and reflection.

The Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI), once a cornerstone of the nation’s hospitality sector, is set to reopen following an announcement by the Finance Minister. This move has reignited hope for the revitalization of an industry that has long struggled with systemic challenges. The institution, located in Chaguaramas, was abruptly closed in 2020, ostensibly due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, the closure was merely the culmination of years of financial neglect, administrative mismanagement, and dwindling government support. The TTHTI had been grappling with unpaid subventions totaling $13.17 million, and its registration with the Accreditation Council remained incomplete, raising concerns about the transferability of student records. Despite efforts by some students to transfer to the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute, the abrupt shutdown left many in limbo. The closure also drew criticism from then-Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, though no concrete action was taken to address the issue. Over its 48-year history, the TTHTI had not only trained aspiring hospitality professionals but also offered popular short courses in culinary arts to individuals of all ages. Its graduates played a pivotal role in initiatives like the School Feeding Programme and went on to establish successful businesses in the hospitality sector. The Finance Minister’s pledge to reopen the institute must go beyond mere restoration; it demands a comprehensive modernization of the facility to align with the evolving needs of the industry. This revival could serve as a critical step in the broader agenda of economic diversification, ensuring that the hospitality sector remains a vital contributor to the nation’s economy.