A million guilders. That’s how much it cost to build this. The Lalarookh gebouw.
This isn’t just any building. It’s a community center. A museum. A testament to the Hindoestani people of Suriname. Right here on Lalla Rookhweg it stands. A symbol of their history. Their culture. Their perseverance.
Construction began in 1973. It was a momentous year. The centennial of Hindoestani immigration to Suriname. A symbolic act took place then. A sacred nierboon was planted. The official opening though? That was much later in 1980.
Sadly the Lalarookh gebouw fell into disrepair. The roof collapsed. Weeds and rubbish took over. A sad state for a building representing such a significant milestone. But hope returned. In 2002 reconstruction began.
Now look around. This revitalized complex boasts multiple halls. They offer training and meeting facilities. There’s even a restaurant and a spacious party terrace. The museum too. A vital part of this magnificent building.
The Lalarookh Museum. It’s more than just a collection of artifacts. It’s a living history. The museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Hindoestani community. It displays tools. Household items. Documents. Photographs. Religious artifacts. Even musical instruments. You can see an original buriki wagi a donkey cart. And a replica of a pinahut a hut built with pinapalm leaves.
The museum uses a timeline. It charts their journey. From Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in India to their arrival in Suriname. It details their contract labor. Their transition to small farms. Their contributions to education. Politics. And their eventual integration into Surinamese society.
The Lalarookh gebouw. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a place where history breathes. Where culture thrives. And where the story of the Hindoestani people in Suriname continues to unfold. It’s a place to remember and celebrate their rich legacy. A legacy proudly displayed within these walls.