Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha celebrates 52 years of service

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) marked its 52nd anniversary this week, reflecting on more than five decades of religious, cultural and community service, while outlining ambitious plans for youth development and national engagement in 2026.

The Sabha was officially launched on January 8, 1974, at the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbellville by Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud and a committed team of Hindus who envisioned an organisation dedicated to selfless service under the Sabha’s guiding motto, transliterated as “Karmany-evadhikaras-te maa phaleshu-kadachana”, and variously translated in English as “To work you have the right, but not to the fruits thereof.” Dr Vindhya Persaud, Minister of Human Services and Social Security of Guyana and President of the GHDS, said the Sabha’s journey over the past 52 years has been one of unity, growth and transformation. “As we celebrate and commemorate 52 years, we look back with pride at the growth of our organisation, at this Dharmic family that we have become, bringing together young people, men and women, across the breadth and length of Guyana,” she said.

The Sabha has invested heavily in education, with programmes ranging from the Dharmic Rama Krishna Play School and Nursery School to Primary and Secondary Schools. Dr Persaud highlighted the organisation’s initiatives aimed at youth development and social well-being. “We could have really transformational programmes like Bhajoka Satsang, focusing on the education of our young people, develop Hindu youth through initiatives focused on young people, including their mental health and well-being and also key areas which help us to combat social ills like suicide, gender-based violence,” she said.

The GHDS also acknowledges the crucial role of its central executive, Prant networks, mandir leadership and members of the Now Jawan and Mahila Mandali in sustaining its programmes.

“Wherever you supported us and wherever you participated, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude,” Dr Persaud said, referencing events like the Diwali motorcade and Holi celebrations.

Looking ahead to 2026, Dr Persaud announced new initiatives with a strong focus on young people, including arts, culture and leadership development. “Many of them have developed through our platform of Kala Utsav, our festival of art and they continue to move upwards and some have even gone on to India and now you have an outstanding cadre of artists and performers that we are very, very proud of,” she said. She added that the Sabha continues to promote Hindi, Sanskrit, dance and music while investing in the next generation of leaders. Dr Persaud also linked the Sabha’s work to the nation’s upcoming 60th Independence Day celebrations. “We look forward to a 60th independence where we can be part of the national celebrations, recognising our sterling contributions for 50 of those 60 years of independence,” she said.

Meanwhile, members of the Sabha also reflected on the personal impact of the organisation. Dr Amisha Mohanlall, a member of the youth arm, Dharmic Naujawaan (DNJ), described how her involvement shaped her personal and professional life. “My journey started from the young age of seven years old when I first joined the Dharmic Murtisa, which is the dance group of the organisation. And then as I grew older, I later continued with the Central Dharmic Nautuan, which is the youth arm of the organisation,” she explained.

She emphasised the skills and values she gained through her participation. “Through the Dharmic Murtisa, I was able to explore my passion for dance and music, performing at numerous events across Canada and even internationally… my experiences there have really taught me skills like discipline and perseverance, helped me to manage my time better, and altogether built my confidence,” Dr Mohanlall said. On giving back to the community, she added: “By joining DNJ, I was able to give back to community through very meaningful humanitarian work, which is something that closely aligns with my goal as to becoming a physician and my commitment to serving others. A lot of initiatives would have included hosting blood drives, doing medical outreaches across the country… DNJ members also plan and organise and execute and support many religious and cultural events.” Dr Mohanlall praised the Sabha’s positive influence on youth development, encouraging young people to participate. “I would wholeheartedly encourage young people to come out and join the family, join the movement and, you know, experience for yourself the sense of belonging, the growth, the purpose and the fulfilment that it very much has to offer,” she said.

As the GHDS celebrates 52 years, its leadership and members reaffirm their commitment to service, education and cultural preservation while continuing to foster a strong connection with youth and communities across Guyana.