Sukh Shanti Bhakti Mandali
Centre History
In a short but memorable history, the Sukh Shanti Bhakti Mandali (SSBM) has achieved many milestones. It all started with the uplifting discourses and enchanting devotional dervices of the founding Spiritual Leader, the late Pt. Parmanand Persad. On Saturday September 6th, 1992, the Sukh Shanti Bhakti Mandali was formed to foster family togetherness and in pursuit of happiness, peace, devotion to God and Mankind. With the formation of Swaha on 11th April 1993, the SSBM bacame a full fledged centre of Swaha International. This group began services at the home of a member, then at the University of the West Indies and later at the upper floor of D.S.M. Paints in El Socorro through the kind courtesy of Mrs. Gyatri Maharaj and the late Anand Maharaj.
During this time the group continued to grow and larger premises were sought. In February of 1993, SSBM began services at Chandrahari Building, Todd Street, El Sororro through the kind consent of the Shankaracharya His Holiness Pt. Hari Prasad, and Pt. Maniedeo Prasad. As time progressed, the congregation grew and the search for a permanent home intensified. In July of 1994, the SSBM organized a nine nights Ramayan Yagna at Aranguez Park, which was a huge success with crowds reaching up to 1,600 on some nights. On Guru Poormima, the desire of members became satisfied through the instrumentality of a young couple who helped shape the vision of SSBM and had the mission at heart. This devoted Hindu family donated five lots of land previously purchased and transferred in full to Swaha. The Shankaracharya offered the blessing and the deed was received by the late Pt. Parmanand Persad on behalf of Swaha and SSBM in the presence of over 1,000 elated devotees.
On Shiv-Raatri 1996, the SSBM moved from Chandrahari Building, El Socorro, to the property at Freeman Road, St. Augustine South by erecting a bamboo tent to conduct activities. Services began Shiv-Raatri night on a very emotional note, and the welcome to the area was encouraging. On Sunday April 7th 1996, with the blessing of the Shankaracharya and the Dharma Mandal, SSBM began the construction of its multi-purpose Hindu Centre, which has resulted in a magnificent landmark in the area. This centre of Swaha emphasises training, financing and providing assistance for the unemployed members of the community so that they may become productive and resourceful members of society. On the cultural side, members are trained in Indian dancing, music, Hindi and yoga. After the loss of Pt. Parmanand Persad, Pt. Gyandeo Persad assumed Spiritual leadership of the Sukh Shanti Bhakti Mandali.
Spiritual Leader
Pt. Gyandeo Persad
Assisting Pundits
Pt. Artma Persad
Centre Activities
Sunday Morning Service: 8.15 to 9.30 AM
Seasonal activities: Phagwa Singing, Children’s Camp, Swadeshe (Indian Arrival Celebration), Ram-leela, Sports Day.
Contact Information
Address: Freeman Road, St. Augustine South
Phone:
Email: n/a
Website: n/a
