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On June 5 we commemorate Hindustani immigration Prawas Dinthe day on which the first British Indian contract workers arrived on the ship Lalla Rookh in 1873 and set foot at Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam. On June 5, 2026, it will be exactly 153 years ago that this historic event took place and thus began one of Suriname’s most significant migration histories.
The first immigrants came to Suriname as contract workers. Many left their native countries due to poverty, social problems and a lack of future prospects. Driven by the hope for a better life, they embarked on a long and uncertain journey to an unknown country. What was initially intended as a temporary residence for many eventually grew into a permanent home.
“The history of Hindustani immigration teaches us that progress is possible when people are willing to work hard and commit themselves to a common goal”
The conditions under which the contract workers had to live and work were difficult. On the plantations they were confronted with long working hours, limited medical facilities, low wages and difficult living conditions. Despite these challenges, they did not allow themselves to be broken. With discipline, resilience, perseverance and belief in a better future, they laid the foundation for the generations that followed.
The Hindustani community has made an undeniable contribution to the development of Suriname. In economic, social, cultural, educational and political areas, she has helped shape the society we know today. Its history is not only a story of survival, but also of progress, entrepreneurship and social involvement.
The Progressive Reform Party (VHP) expresses its deep appreciation for the strength and determination of our ancestors who, despite countless obstacles, have preserved their culture, traditions and values and at the same time made a significant contribution to building our country. At the same time, the orange party emphasizes the importance of monitoring and promoting the norms and values that hold our society together.
Respect, solidarity, responsibility, integrity and mutual understanding are the foundations of a strong and harmonious society. Especially in these times, it is very important to keep these values alive and pass them on to future generations. The history of Hindustani immigration teaches us that progress is possible when people are willing to work hard, make sacrifices, invest in education and development and commit themselves to a common goal. That heritage remains a source of inspiration for all Surinamese to this day.
On this special day we honor the courage, sacrifices and perseverance of our ancestors. Their dream of a better life has not only advanced their own families, but also made a lasting contribution to the development and prosperity of Suriname.
Together we honor the past, value the present and build a strong, just and prosperous future for Suriname. The VHP wishes the entire Surinamese society a dignified and inspiring commemoration of 153 years of Hindustani immigration.
VHP
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