Book on history of Indians in St. Vincent launched

By Admin. Updated 9:11 a.m., Wednesday, November 17, 2021, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

A book about the history of Indians who journeyed from India to St. Vincent and the story of their descendants has been launched.

The book, ‘Stories from Our Indian Elders,’ brings together information from multiple sources, interviews and commentary from the author.

The author of the book is Mr. Dornald Lenroy Thomas, who is from Richland Park, St Vincent.

According to a press release, Mr. Thomas now resides in Istanbul, Turkey but is involved with projects and organisations connected with St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The release stated that the book summarises the conditions that existed both in India and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) before the first Indians braved the seas to travel to the Caribbean Island.

“We see the reasons why they embark on this journey and are told about their lives after landing and their descendants’ lives over the last hundred and sixty years,” the release stated.

“Eight interviews with Indian Elders are featured along with the existing records to corroborate and authenticate this history. The book also shows how Indians in SVG and in the diaspora can connect with their existing families in India and looks at future relationship possibilities between SVG and India,” the release added.

The release further states that “The book aims to help fill the literary gap that has existed over the years regarding the history and life of the Indians of SVG. It will be very useful to students and others who want to learn more about the topic.”

According to Dr. Adrian Fraser, former Head of the University of the West Indies Open Campus, this book “…is really for all Vincentians since the Indian population is a significant part of the nation and has made valuable contributions to overall national development…” It is “…a useful document for all Vincentians interested in Vincentian history and nationhood”.

The book is available in both hard copy and soft copy, including on Amazon in Kindle.