In celebration of Indian Arrival Day 2025, the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS), in collaboration with the High Commission of India and the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation, hosted a cultural performance by a visiting Bhojpuri Folk Troupe from India on Thursday May 29, 2025, at the Amphitheatre of the National Library of Trinidad and Tobago in Port of Spain.

The event brought together officials, ambassadors, and members of the public for an unforgettable evening of music, rhythm, and shared heritage.

This performance marked the first time that a visiting group brought in by the Indian High Commission performed in the capital city of Port of Spain. While similar cultural delegations have previously captivated audiences in other parts of Trinidad and Tobago, this event represented a historic cultural milestone for patrons in the city.

The Honourable Khadijah Ameen, MP, Minister of Rural Development and Local Government, who highlighted the significance of the day and the shared cultural heritage that unites all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, delivered the feature address.

Headlining the evening’s programme was Dr. Shailesh Shrivastava, internationally recognised as the Queen of Bhojpuri Singing and a recipient of the prestigious Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, presented by the President of India, Her Excellency Droupadi Murmu. Dr. Shrivastava and her troupe, who travelled from Mumbai, India, delivered an authentic presentation of Bhojpuri folk music that resonated deeply with the audience.

Dr. Shrivastava was accompanied by Pt. Kalinath Mishra, an acclaimed tabla maestro of the Banaras Gharana and fellow Akademi awardee.  A talented group of dancers from the Indian Film industry also graced the stage, thrilling the audience with their performance in traditional attire.

This collaboration between NALIS and the Indian High Commission underscores a shared commitment to honouring the rich cultural traditions of the Indian diaspora and fostering cross-cultural appreciation. Indian Arrival Day, observed annually on May 30, commemorates the arrival of the first Indian indentured labourers to Trinidad in 1845.

NALIS remains committed to facilitating cultural exchange, lifelong learning, and the preservation of national heritage through dynamic public programming.

For more information, please contact NALIS at (868) 625-2547 / 623-9673 / 624-1130 / 624-4466 or via email at nalis@nalis.gov.tt. Follow NALIS on social media for ongoing updates and announcements.