Girmitiya Foundation

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Girmitiya Foundation

GIRMITIYA FOUNDATION is an NGO in India, Helping Girmitiyas family, Who are searching their Ancestors Roots/ Birth Place/ Village in India.

Foundation is working also in Education, Women empowerment, Skilled and Promote Indian traditional culture field.

21/06/2026

International Yoga Day | Girmitiya Foundation

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Girmitiya Foundation extends its heartfelt wishes to everyone. Yoga is not just a form of exercise; it is a way of life that promotes physical health, mental peace, and spiritual well-being.

Let us embrace yoga as a daily practice and take a step towards a healthier, happier, and more balanced life. Together, we can build a stronger and healthier community.

"Healthy Body, Calm Mind, Better Life."

Happy International Yoga Day! 🧘‍♀️🌿🙏

05/06/2026

Suriname Indian Arrival Day: Honouring the Legacy of the Girmitiya Ancestors.

5th June – , Suriname

On 5 June every year, the people of Suriname and the global Indian diaspora commemorate Indian Arrival Day (Prawasi Day), marking the arrival of the first Indian indentured labourers to Suriname in 1873. On this historic day, the ship "Lalla Rookh" arrived at Paramaribo carrying the first group of Indian migrants, beginning a remarkable chapter in the history of the Indian diaspora.

Indian Arrival Day is not merely a remembrance of migration; it is a tribute to the courage, resilience, and determination of the thousands of Girmitiya ancestors who crossed the oceans in search of a better future. Between 1873 and 1916, more than 34,000 Indians, primarily from present-day Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, arrived in Suriname under the indenture system. Their hard work, sacrifices, and perseverance laid the foundation for a vibrant Indo-Surinamese community that continues to contribute significantly to the nation's development.

Despite immense hardships, these pioneers preserved their cultural identity, language, traditions, and spiritual values. Today, the descendants of these migrants proudly celebrate their Indian heritage while enriching Suriname's multicultural society. Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and traditional Indian customs remain an integral part of the country's cultural fabric.

Girmitiya Foundation pays heartfelt tribute to the memory of all Girmitiya ancestors whose struggles and sacrifices transformed adversity into opportunity. Their story is one of endurance, dignity, and hope—an inspiring legacy for future generations across the world.

On this Suriname Indian Arrival Day, let us remember our shared history, honour the contributions of the Indo-Surinamese community, and strengthen the bonds between India and the global Girmitiya diaspora.

"Their journey was born of hardship, but their legacy became a beacon of culture, resilience, and achievement."

"Preserving the Legacy of Indian Indenture and Celebrating the Global Indian Diaspora."

30/05/2026

, Trinidad & Tobago

A Tribute from Girmitiya Foundation

On 30 May, we commemorate a historic journey that forever changed the cultural and social landscape of Trinidad & Tobago and enriched the story of the global Indian diaspora.

This day marks the arrival of the first ship, *Fatel Razack*, in 1845, carrying Indian indentured labourers from the shores of India to Trinidad. Their voyage was not merely a migration across oceans; it was a journey of courage, sacrifice, resilience, and hope.

Leaving behind their homeland, families, and familiar surroundings, these pioneers faced immense challenges in an unknown land. Yet through determination and hard work, they built new lives while preserving their language, faith, traditions, and cultural values.

The descendants of these Girmitiya pioneers have made remarkable contributions to Trinidad & Tobago in every sphere of national life—politics, education, business, culture, public service, and community development. Their achievements stand as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of their ancestors.

Indian Arrival Day is more than a commemoration of a historical event. It is a celebration of identity, heritage, perseverance, and the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora to the development of multicultural societies around the world.

On this significant occasion, Girmitiya Foundation pays tribute to the generations of Girmitiya descendants who have preserved their heritage while contributing meaningfully to their adopted homeland. We also honor the sacrifices of the first arrivals whose dreams and determination laid the foundation for future generations.

As we remember their journey, let us renew our commitment to preserving Girmitiya history, promoting cultural understanding, and strengthening the bonds that unite the global Indian diaspora.

May the legacy of our ancestors continue to inspire future generations with pride, resilience, and a sense of shared heritage.

Happy Indian Arrival Day, Trinidad & Tobago.

Remembering the Journey. Honouring the Legacy. Celebrating the Future.

21/05/2026

Today, the Girmitiya Foundation (https://www.girmitiyafoundation.org) had the privilege of participating in a highly fruitful and inspiring meeting with the Board Committee of GOPIO International. The discussion was graced by the esteemed presence of our Advisor, His Excellency Mookhesswur Choonee, along with several distinguished members and eminent personalities from the committee.

The meeting focused on preparations and strategic planning for the forthcoming "Girmitiya International Conference", which is set to be hosted in Mauritius — marking a historic milestone as the conference will be organized for the first time in a Girmitiya nation. The initiative aims to strengthen global connections among the Girmitiya diaspora while preserving and promoting the rich heritage, culture, and legacy of indentured communities across the world.

It was also a great honor to finally meet long-time social media friend Mr. Raakesh Achadoo, the principal producer of an upcoming feature film project to be realized in Mauritius. The interaction opened new avenues for cultural collaboration and creative engagement connected to the Girmitiya narrative and heritage.

The Girmitiya Foundation remains committed to taking its vision and projects forward with greater international cooperation, cultural unity, and community participation. We look ahead with optimism and enthusiasm as these meaningful partnerships continue to grow for the benefit of the global Girmitiya community.

15/05/2026

Attending the 1st ever international conference in Mauritius 🇲🇺. 𝐌𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐮𝐬.

This long-awaited conference has brought together researchers, historians, heritage professionals and members of the global diaspora to reflect on the history and legacy of indentured labour.

From Mauritius to India, from Fiji to South Africa, and from the Caribbean to the Pacific, this shared history continues to connect millions of descendants across the world through resilience, sacrifice and hope.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius, Government remains fully committed to preserving and promoting the Aapravasi Ghat and our national heritage.

Mauritius is today positioning itself as a global centre for research, dialogue and cooperation on indenture studies.

On behalf of Foundation our sincere thanks go to all participants, organisers and partners for contributing to the success of this historic gathering to maintain and to bring further thus global connectivity, WE GIRMITIYAS DESCENDANTS

India in Mauritius (High Commission of India, Port Louis) PMO India Indian Council For Cultural Relations

14/05/2026

Today, on Fiji Remembrance Day, the Girmitiya Foundation pays heartfelt tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of the Girmitiya ancestors who journeyed across oceans and helped shape the history and identity of Fiji.

This day reminds us of the struggles faced by thousands of indentured laborers who left their homeland with hope in their hearts and resilience in their souls. Despite unimaginable hardships, they preserved their culture, traditions, language, and values for future generations.

We honor their memories, celebrate their contributions, and reaffirm our commitment to reconnecting the global Girmitiya community with its roots and heritage.

Their struggle was not just a journey of survival, but a story of dignity, unity, and human strength that continues to inspire generations across the world.

🌺 *Respect to our ancestors. Pride in our heritage. Commitment to our roots.*

— [Girmitiya Foundation
www.girmitiyafoundation.org

01/05/2026

On this Labour Day, the Girmitiya Foundation pays heartfelt tribute to the millions of hardworking individuals whose dedication, resilience, and sacrifice continue to build nations and shape societies.

This day holds a special significance for us as we remember the legacy of the Girmitiya ancestors—those brave souls who endured unimaginable hardships, crossed oceans under indenture, and through sheer determination transformed their struggles into strength. Their journey from “labour” to “legacy” is not just history, but a living inspiration.

Labour Day is not only about recognizing work—it is about honoring dignity, perseverance, and the human spirit. From farmers in the fields to workers in industries, from daily wage earners to professionals across sectors—every hand that contributes to progress deserves respect and gratitude.

At Girmitiya Foundation, our mission “Reconnect to Your Roots” reminds us that behind every achievement lies the silent toil of generations. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to preserve their stories, celebrate their contributions, and inspire future generations to value hard work and unity.

Let us continue to build a world where labour is respected, rights are protected, and every individual is empowered.

"Salute to the spirit of labour"
"Salute to our Girmitiya heritage"

12/04/2026

The Girmitiya Foundation expresses its profound grief and heartfelt tribute to the passing of Asha Bhosle, an iconic voice who shaped the soul of Indian music across generations.

Her unparalleled contribution to music transcended borders, resonating deeply with the Indian diaspora and Girmitiya communities around the world. Through her timeless melodies, she not only entertained but also preserved and carried the essence of Indian culture to distant shores.

Asha ji’s extraordinary journey stands as a symbol of dedication, versatility, and artistic brilliance. Her voice will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions, continuing to inspire future generations.

In this moment of great loss, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, admirers, and the global music fraternity.

May her soul attain eternal peace. Om Shanti.🙏

04/04/2026

The Girmitiya Foundation continues to achieve remarkable success through its mission, “Reconnect to Your Roots.” Today marks yet another meaningful milestone, as Mr.Hansraj Tulsee and his family, who arrived from South Africa, visited their ancestral birthplace in Ghosi, Uttar Pradesh.

They were accorded a warm and heartfelt welcome by the local community. We extend our sincere gratitude to local social worker and advocate, Mr. Hanuman Rajbhar, for his selfless support in making this noble initiative possible.

Reconnecting in 2026 with roots that trace back to 1891 has been an incredibly emotional and fulfilling experience. It truly reflects the power of heritage, identity, and belonging.

Following this visit, we invite you to read the heartfelt letter written by Mr. Hansraj Tulsee sharing his experience and emotions..............

Namaste Bhai

Thank you very much for all your help for us to meet Hanumanji, some elders, and his neighbors.

We had a fruitful talk. I was overcome with the kindness and warmth of all. Hanumanji went out of his way to treat us with snacks and chai. Everyone was humble and genuine. Although I have no idea who my family here in Ghoshi are, I experienced the true spirit of Ghoshi and its people through Hanumanji and the people I met. They made us belong and feel as family . I feel a sense of completion , having retracted the footsteps of my great grandfather to Ghoshi, the place where he and my ancestors were before him were born and lived. I cannot really describe the strong sense of happiness I felt deep within me for having traced and visited the place of our family origins.

Unfortunately it was very hot and windy and we were unable to move around to see the place.

Thank you, bhai, for all your support and guidance. May you always be blessed.

Regards
Hansraj Tulsee

Girmitiya Foundation Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India Chief Minister Office Uttar Pradesh Diaspora India Connect Uttar Pradesh Tourism PMO India

31/03/2026

The Girmitiya Foundation expresses its heartfelt condolences on the passing of former president of Suriname HE Chandrikapersad Santokhi, a distinguished leader and a proud torchbearer of the Girmitiya heritage.

His life and leadership reflected the enduring strength, resilience, and values of the Girmitiya community. He was not only a statesman of great vision but also a symbol of unity and cultural pride for the Indian diaspora across the world.

In this moment of profound loss, the Girmitiya Foundation stands in solidarity with the people of Suriname and the global Girmitiya community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to serve with integrity, compassion, and dedication.

We pray for eternal peace for the departed soul and strength for his family, loved ones, and the nation he so devotedly served.

Om Shanti

Address

32 A, Mayur Vihar Phase 1, Near/Una Enclave Gate No. 2
Delhi
110091

Telephone

+919883209116

Website

http://www.girmitiyafoundation.org/

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