Have you noticed the intricate details adorning the Shri Hanuman Mandir? It stands as a testament to Hinduism. Hinduism is the second-largest religion in Suriname. Its story mirrors that of neighboring Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. Indian indentured laborers arrived in colonial Dutch Guiana. This was facilitated by an arrangement between the Dutch and British.
Now, let’s delve into the history of Hinduism in Suriname. The Dutch adopted a more liberal approach. This fostered a vibrant cultural development. The Bhagavad Gita, Ramcharitmanas, and Ramayana are widely read here.
As of 2015, Suriname had 129440 Hindus. This constitutes 23.15% of the population. This makes Suriname second only to Guyana in the Western Hemisphere. Guyana has 24.8% Hindus.
The percentage of Hindus saw initial growth. This was from 1900 into the 1930s. It then experienced slight fluctuations between the 1930s and 1980s. After this, it remained stable around 20%. Migration patterns explain these demographic shifts. A significant migration to the Netherlands occurred. This happened around Suriname’s independence in 1975. It also occurred during the military regime of 1980-1987.
Interestingly, various Hindu denominations thrive here. A 2012 census revealed that 18% of Surinamese are Sanatani Hindus. Another 3.1% identify as Arya Samaj. The remaining 1.2% follow other Hindu traditions. Even ISKCON has a presence in Suriname.
Most Hindus in Suriname are of East Indian descent. Hinduism also has followers among mixed ethnic groups. Javanese, Chinese, Creole, and Maroon communities also practice Hinduism. Even Indigenous and Afro-Surinamese people are among the followers.
Unlike neighboring Guyana, Surinamese Hindus largely speak Sarnami Hindustani. The Dutch did not force them to abandon their native languages. This contrasts with British colonies like Trinidad and Guyana. There, English was imposed to erase cultural and religious traditions.
Two major festivals hold national holiday status here. Diwali and Holi bring color and joy to Suriname.
The Arya Diwaker, originally named Arya Dewaker, holds a special place. Its name means ‘Aryan Sun’ in Hindi. It was officially opened on February 11, 2001. Pandit Mehtā Jaimīni founded it on September 29, 1929. He was an Ārya Samājī who came from India. The Dutch colonial government formally recognized the association in 1930.
An octagonal building was completed in 2001. Dutch architect Arthur E. de Groot designed it. It features meeting rooms, a library, and a space for ceremonies. The fireplace sits at the hall’s center. Benches surround it in circles. This emphasizes equality among attendees. The towers symbolize the three eternal units: God, humans, and nature. The roofs have four floors. This represents the four Vedas. The building lacks images. Image worship is forbidden in the Ārya Samāj. Swastikas and Om-syllables adorn the walls. Sanskrit and Hindi sentences in devanagari script are also present.
The architect aimed for a ‘tropical temple.’ It incorporates elements of Surinamese architecture. Large eaves, verandas, and white-painted checkered windows are present. Mughal and Moorish influences are also visible.
During the restoration of 2016-2018, the ceiling was covered. White synthetic plates now make the temple room much lighter.
The Shri Hanuman Mandir stands as a vibrant testament. It reflects the enduring Hindu faith in Suriname. It showcases a unique blend of tradition and cultural adaptation.