Purvaj | Nirupa Savita Manohar

Poem by Nirupa Savita Manohar of Swaha Gyaan Deepak Kirtan Mandali
Swadeshe 2009

Our purvaj came on the Fatel Razack across the Kaalaa Paanee,
As indentured labourers to cut cheenee
They toiled and sacrificed in the scorching sun each day
All to receive a stale piece of bread or a meager pay.
They chanted Bhagwan’s name ‘O Hari Hey Ram!’
And praised him profusely extending their arms

Dal, Kheer and mango achar brought by purvaj
These they prepared with dheeraj
These dishes, how they have never died
Not forgetting on festivals and occasions their mouth watering mithaee
The simple sari and dhoti is modernized
With embroidered shalwar, gharara and kurta to mesmerize, tantalize and paralyze

The dhimika, dhimika rhythm of the damaru and dholak while they chant
Harmonised with the melodious tunes of the harmonium and bhajans
Created a devotional atmosphere allowing shakti to rise
In their hearts where God resides

The most valuable jewels in this age Kaliyug
Are the Vedas, Bhagwat Geeta and the Ramayan which also teaches Satyug
These scriptures were upheld by our purvaj and recited daily
Before the French sent them in the plantations for ‘slavery’
The mother of all languages, Hindi
Was spoken by our ancestors very fluently

Beta aur beti, bhai aur bahino
Maataaji aur Pitaaji aagay chalo
Have pride in our fruitful tradition
So our yuvak will acquire ambition
Practicing our rightful duties of Sanatan Dharma
We shall display utmost gratitude to our forefathers

O great forefathers we say dhanyavaad
For your religious impact in Trinidad
And your wide variety of cultural contributions
Are always noted and appreciated in out nation
With pride and honour we don’t hesitate to say
“Garv say kaho, Hum Hindu Hain!”