• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Trinidad and Tobago has announced plans to build a grand Ram Mandir, positioning itself as a spiritual and cultural hub for Hinduism in the Western Hemisphere. The initiative follows the successful unveiling of a replica of the Ram Lalla idol from Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir earlier this year, which drew thousands of devotees and highlighted the Caribbean nation’s enduring bond with India. 

Speaking on the project, Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath described Trinidad and Tobago as “Ramayan country,” a nation that has preserved Hindu traditions with remarkable devotion since the arrival of Indian indentured labourers in the 19th century. “The Ram Lalla initiative is something that we welcome, it is something we support,” he said.

The minister confirmed that the government is exploring ways to advance the temple project, which will not only serve as a spiritual site but also as a tourism and cultural education centre. “A lot of the cultural and religious expression of India, through Hinduism in particular, has been maintained and kept alive here,” Padarath added.

ALSO READ: US Lawmaker Urges Pentagon To Reconsider Beard-Shaving Policy For Sikhs

Ram Lalla Idol Unveiling And Diaspora Connection

In May 2025, Trinidad and Tobago hosted a landmark event, the unveiling of a replica of Ayodhya’s Ram Lalla idol. The ceremony, jointly organised by Prem Bhandari, founder of the Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir in New York, and Amit Alagh, chairperson of the Ayodhya Shri Ram Organisation in Trinidad and Tobago, attracted more than 10,000 devotees to Port of Spain.

The event was seen as a defining moment for the country’s large Indian diaspora, reinforcing spiritual ties between the Caribbean and India. Bhandari has since proposed the creation of an “Ayodhya Nagari”, a Hindu spiritual and cultural centre for North American devotees who may not be able to visit India.

Promoting Religious Tourism And Cultural Heritage

Officials view the proposed Ram Mandir as a major step toward strengthening Hindu identity while promoting religious tourism. The temple is expected to host regular Bhagwat Katha, Ramayan recitations, and cultural festivals, becoming a hub for Hindu learning and exchange across the Americas.

ALSO READ: Indian Trucker, Who Entered US Illegally And High On Drugs, Kills 3 In California Crash | Live Accident Video Surfaces

Trinidad and Tobago’s announcement comes on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the nation in July, during which he was awarded the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the country’s highest honour. Modi praised the Indian diaspora for preserving their heritage and announced that sixth-generation Indian-origin citizens would now be eligible for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, allowing deeper cultural and familial ties with India.

Also In News