So they arrived in 1845 on the Nelson Island
Some of them came heavy with burden
seeking a new life
one that would save them from strife
They left India
they ventured to foreign land
Trinidad and Tobago estate Mainland
Indentured 1845-1917
A new life they did start here
Today we have roti, curry and phlourie
Indian sweets like barfi and jalebi
Festival of Colour
spraying of abeer says “Phagwa”
Festival of light
And the biggest Indian heritage site
Divali Nagar
Beside a 85ft Hanuman Murti
and the old Temple by the sea
the Indians brought their fashion
that is more visible for all to see
Indian expos and regular boutiques bring sari and shalwar
but Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Jaipur creates their own
With a song in their heart and the beat of the people
Tassa drums and Indian classical
Mungal Patasar and Shiv Shakti dance group
The evolution of Ravi B, Rikki Jai and JMC Triveni
Chutney Bacchanal right here in Trini!
Oh yes! They really did it!
They contributed more than a language of Hindi, film and caricature
their inherent religion of Hinduism as well
They brought a culture
and they imparted their knowledge
Today we celebrate
A nation that has been rebirth
an Independent nation
free from indenture
Joining our brothers and sisters as one unit
one people
Our beautiful Trinidad and Tobago!
