Visiting and delivering a discourse at the Triumph Arya Samaj was a joy. Triumph was the first branch of the Arya Samaj to be established and registered in British Guyana in the early 1900’s. I remember this building especially because of an Arya Vir Dal youth camp conducted there by Pandit Usharbudh Arya and Headmaster Harry Prasad (pic below) in 1960. I conducted a few youth camps there in the 70s before going to India in 1977. Memories associated with those years are still strong in my mind. I won’t forget the times I spent in Triumph in the enlightening company of Pandit Sudhakar, his father Pandit Ramnath, his cousin brother Bhai Harrydeo Ramkhellawan, and other eminent Pandits of the Arya Samaj.
The building was recently renovated and the last activity sought to rekindle an old flame of vibrant activity associated with a one-time famous Samaj. Some member families living in North America (Sandra, Vishok, Seema, and others) contributed funds to renovate the Samaj Mandir. Triumph villagers visited one night, at Satsang to make up a decent-sized congregation. Before I delivered the Pravachan, I heard some of the best music accompanying well-sung Bhajans. Some of the most talented musicians and singers are still living in Guyana, impacting the level of delivery in Kathas and Yajnas and causing them to be very well attended and liked.
My lecture tour continues on the East Coast of Demerara and other parts of the country. Namaste!
DR SATISH PRAKASH