KINGSTON, Jamaica — This weekend the Indo‑Jamaican community will honour 180 years of history on the island, tracing its roots to May 10, 1845, when 261 indentured workers sailed into Old Harbour Bay aboard the SS Blundell. Their arrival opened a new chapter in Jamaica’s cultural and economic story, one that is still unfolding today. Home – Jamaica Observer
Indian Heritage Day, a national observance since 1995, provides the focal point for the anniversary. This year’s tribute is organised by the National Council for Indian Culture in Jamaica (NCICJ) and spans two days of free public events designed to showcase Indo‑Jamaican music, dance, food and fellowship. Home – Jamaica Observer
The celebration begins with a curtain‑raiser at Emancipation Park on Friday, 9 May, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Patrons can expect a sampler of cultural performances to set the tone for the main festivities. Home – Jamaica Observer
On Sunday, 11 May, the spotlight shifts to Chedwin Park on Old Harbour Road. From 2:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the venue will host a packed programme featuring chutney‑soca headliner Renuka Mahabir, vocalist Veejai Ramkissoon and band, Maharaj Sangeet, Raaja Getta Bhojpuri, and the Clarendon Tassa drummers. Classical Kathak dancers, India’s Padatik Bollywood troupe and local Indo‑Jamaican performers round out the stage lineup. Home – Jamaica ObserverInstagram
Beyond the stage, attendees can sample a spread of traditional Indian dishes, fusion Indo‑Jamaican fare, a variety of rotis and artisanal breads, plus both local and Indian beverages. The NCICJ notes that all activities, culinary booths included, are open to the public at no charge, underscoring the community’s ethos of inclusion and shared heritage. Home – Jamaica Observer
Organisers encourage families of every background to attend, reminding Jamaicans that the island’s strength has always sprung from the many cultures woven into its national fabric — a story the Indo‑Jamaican journey has enriched for eighteen decades and counting.
