Trinidad and Tobago is set to build a grand Ram Mandir in its capital, Port of Spain, with the full backing of the government. The initiative aims to promote Hinduism and Indian culture, reinforcing the Caribbean nation’s long-standing identity as the “Ramayana Country.” Alongside the Mandir, plans are underway to create a “mini Ayodhya,” a spiritual hub that would allow devotees from North America and the Caribbean to experience the essence of Ayodhya without travelling to India.
With a population of approximately 1.5 million, Trinidad and Tobago is home to over 350,000 Hindus. Hindu religious and cultural traditions have been deeply ingrained in the country for centuries, making it one of the few nations in the Americas where these practices continue to thrive in everyday life. The government’s support for the Mandir project reflects a commitment to preserving this heritage while also promoting the country as a centre for spiritual tourism and cultural exchange.
Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath recently expressed the government’s strong support for the project during a meeting with religious leaders. He highlighted that the nation has long been celebrated as the “Ramayana Country” and stressed that the Mandir would serve not only as a religious landmark but also as a cultural and spiritual centre for residents and visitors alike. According to Padarath, the initiative is seen as a way to strengthen cultural identity while providing a space for reflection, worship, and community gatherings.
The idea of establishing a “mini Ayodhya” was proposed by Prem Bhandari, founder of the US-based Overseas Friends of the Ram Mandir organisation. Bhandari suggested developing “Ayodhya Nagari” to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, envisioning a spiritual hub that could accommodate pilgrims from the Americas who are unable to visit Ayodhya in India. The project is designed to recreate the atmosphere of the holy city, offering devotees an authentic experience while fostering connections with Indian culture and traditions.
In May 2025, a replica of Ram Lalla from Ayodhya was unveiled in Port of Spain, drawing over 10,000 devotees. The event was organised jointly by Prem Bhandari and Amit Alagh, president of the Ayodhya Shri Ram Organisation, and marked a significant milestone in the Mandir project. The unveiling attracted widespread attention and highlighted the enthusiasm and support within the Hindu community in Trinidad and Tobago.
The announcement coincided with Deepawali celebrations on October 20, a national holiday in Trinidad and Tobago. The festival, marked by lighting ceremonies and festive gatherings, underscored the cultural importance of the Mandir initiative. The government’s endorsement of the project during this time has been seen as a symbolic gift to the Hindu community, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
As preparations move forward, the grand Ram Mandir is expected to become a landmark for Trinidad and Tobago, strengthening the country’s identity as a centre of Hinduism and Indian culture in the Caribbean, while offering devotees and visitors a unique spiritual and cultural experience.
