City of San Fernando

Mayor's Office
City Hall, Harris Promenade, San Fernando,
Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Tel / Fax: (868) 652-9378 - Email:mayorsfcc@gmail.com


His Worship The Mayor, Alderman Haji Kazim Hosein



29
th
May, 2014



Commemoration of Indian Arrival Day 2014

His Worship the Mayor, Alderman Kazim Hosein, Aldermen, Councillors and Chief Executive
Officer of the San Fernando City Corporation Mr. Indarjit Singh wish to extend a special
congratulation and best wishes to the Indian Diaspora as we commemorate the arrival of our
forefathers from the Indian subcontinent to Trinidad and Tobago aboard the Fatel Razack in
1845.
The Diaspora has indeed made a significant contribution to building and developing The City of
San Fernando and by extension our country of Trinidad and Tobago. Our indentured fore-
parents brought a rich culture of food, dress, dance, values, beliefs, festivals and celebrations
that are today so well infused into our society, yet very distinguished, making us a cosmopolitan
and dynamic society where every creed and race have indeed found an equal place.
The World famous and now becoming staple breakfast in Trinidad and Tobago the doubles
(barah) that was first served in Princes Town is the product of a rich Indian heritage and cultural
infusion. In every market, you can find Khurma, Peera, Goolab Jamoon, and Jelllaby and on
every main street you are sure to find a rotishop. In programmes such as the Children of
Mastana Bahar, you can see the young children dancing to Indian classical music, playing
classical instruments such as the Tabla, Jhal, majeera and sitar.
The dhantal (long steel rod) emerged as a musical instrument during the period of indentured
labour, today our entire country celebrates in the mix of festivals in unity such as Divali, Eid,
Christmas, Phagwa, Hosay Christmas amongst others.





City of San Fernando
Mayor's Office
City Hall, Harris Promenade, San Fernando,
Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Tel / Fax: (868) 652-9378 - Email:mayorsfcc@gmail.com



We must reflect on the journey that the Hindus, Muslims, Christians, indentured labourer and
African Slaves had to take to cross a vast ocean, I am sure that they prayed, shared a meal and
slept aboard the ships looking out for one another. I am sure this journey was very
instrumental in creating the bonds of brotherhood as we can continue living amongst each
other in peace and harmony with shared values. Side by side the Diaspora has stood and
continues to stand showing respect for all other peoples, background and beliefs contributing
and leading in key leadership positions, driving economic development and charting a course in
the continued enhancement of our beloved country as Trinidadians and Tobagonians.
Let us gather as family, friends and good neighbours to celebrate the tradition of togetherness,
and always remember our rich history and cultural background. May this day be filled with
happiness and joy as we enjoy the memories of our ancestors as we strive to live in peace and
harmony for the benefit and continued up-liftment of all the people of this blessed Nation.
Today the reality we live in was once the dreams of our fore-parents, of forging a better and
brighter future. Let us always be reminded of this to be strong, respect our past and embrace
our present, work in unity with all creed and race, together pushing forward for continued
advancement and harmony for the benefit of all.
Once again, greetings on Indian Arrival Day 2014 from the Council of the San Fernando City
Corporation, with blessings from Almighty God.

Sincerely


His Worship, Alderman Kazim Hosein
Mayor of The City of San Fernando