On Saturday, 5 July, the very first international Hybrid Meet & Greet on Girmitiyalogy will take place in the Netherlands. Girmityalogy is a new academic discipline, recently established in India, and rapidly gaining significance worldwide. Journalists, researchers, students, and anyone interested in heritage, diaspora, and colonial history are welcome to attend this unique event.
New Science, Old Stories
Girmityalogy is emerging at respected Indian universities such as the University of Delhi and the University of Lucknow. The discipline focuses on the history and shared heritage of the Girmityas – people of Indian origin who migrated to places like the Caribbean during colonial times, often under coercion. This field builds a bridge between the past, identity, and community, and offers deep relevance for today’s social issues.
A Layered and Connecting Programme
This event offers more than academic insight. Attendees will meet the initiators of this movement, including leading scholars (names to be announced). The afternoon will feature a live performance by Raj Mohan, showcasing traditional Girmitiya songs. Following the music, a communal dinner will offer participants a chance to engage in conversation and build meaningful connections. The event is accessible to all, with options to attend either in person or online.
A Call to Engage
Our goal is simple yet powerful: to amplify the voices of the Girmitiyas, turning remembrance into a movement that educates, empowers, and inspires the world. By reconnecting with shared history and collective heritage, space is created for a new, common starting point—a foundation for self-aware communities that honour their past and shape their future.
This Meet & Greet invites more than just listening. It calls for reflection, dialogue, and movement.
Also, Dr Shardhanand Harinandan Singh’s new book will be launched at this hybrid Meet & Greet International Conference.
Date: Saturday, 5 July 2025
Time: 13:00 – 19:00 hrs
Venue: Asazo Mandir, Zoetermeer & Online
Participation (in-person): €55 incl. dinner – cash payment at the entrance
Press with a card with no fee. There will be a press moment.
Dress Code: Culturally inspired
Language: English
Registration required (due to catering) – More info via: singh@kpnmail.nl
