Trinidad and Tobago Embraces Plan for Ram Mandir as Hindu Heritage Gains Momentum

In News

Trinidad and Tobago is moving ahead with plans to establish a Ram Mandir in its capital city, marking a significant step in promoting Hindu cultural and spiritual heritage in the Caribbean.

Analysis

• Government Initiative:
  The proposal has received strong support from Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath, who described Trinidad and Tobago as “Ramayan country,” recognising its longstanding preservation of Hindu traditions.
• Cultural Diplomacy and Diaspora Link:
  The initiative reflects deep cultural ties between India and the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago, many of whom trace their ancestry to Indian indentured labourers who arrived in the 19th century.
• Key Collaborations:
  The move follows a landmark event in May 2025, when a replica of the Ram Lalla idol from Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir was unveiled in Trinidad. The ceremony was jointly organised by Prem Bhandari (Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir, New York) and Amit Alagh (Ayodhya Shri Ram Organisation, Trinidad & Tobago).
• Ayodhya Nagari Proposal:
  Prem Bhandari also proposed establishing an “Ayodhya Nagari”—a Hindu spiritual and cultural hub in Trinidad and Tobago for devotees in the Western Hemisphere unable to travel to Ayodhya, India.
• Tourism and Soft Power:
  The government views the proposed Ram Mandir not only as a spiritual centre but also as a driver of religious tourism, expected to attract devotees and cultural visitors globally.
• Religious Integration:
  Hinduism forms a vital part of Trinidad and Tobago’s social fabric, with Diwali celebrated as a national public holiday. The Ram Mandir project further reinforces the country’s multicultural identity and its role as a hub for Hindu religious expression.
• Future Announcements:
  Minister Padarath indicated that major announcements regarding the Mandir project and related Hindu religious initiatives are expected in the upcoming months.

Static/Background Information

• Trinidad and Tobago:
  • Location: Caribbean region, twin-island nation near Venezuela.
  • Population: Approx. 1.5 million.
  • Indian-origin population: Significant, descendants of indentured labourers (1845–1917) brought by the British from India.
• Hinduism in Trinidad and Tobago:
  • Among the largest non-Christian religious groups in the nation.
  • Traditions such as Bhagwat Katha, Ramayan recitation, and Diwali celebrations are integral to national culture.
  • The Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha is a key Hindu organisation in the country.
• Ram Mandir, Ayodhya (India):
  • Located in Uttar Pradesh, India.
  • Dedicated to Lord Ram, an incarnation of Vishnu.
  • Inaugurated in January 2024, symbolising the revival of a long-standing cultural and religious aspiration.
    
    Updated - 21 Oct 2025 ; 12:12 PM | DD News