The celebrations took place at the Indenture Memorial, Jetty No.8, Kidderpore, along the Hooghly River, marking the anniversary of the first group of 36 “hill coolies” from Chotanagpur who set sail on September 15, 1834. One hundred and ninety one years down the line, the day-long seminar drew dignitaries and scholars from India, Mauritius, Fiji, South Africa, the UK, and the USA, reflecting the global significance of India’s emigration history.

Memorial as Tribute

Inaugurated in 2011, the Kolkata Indenture Memorial stands as a lasting homage to the courage, endurance, and contributions of Indian labourers abroad. It honours how these pioneers shaped the modern Indian diaspora while preserving Indian culture, values, and community traditions across generations, leaving an indelible mark in their adopted countries.

Global Insights and Discussions

Panel discussions explored Kolkata’s pivotal role as the Emigration Gateway, emphasising its place in global migration networks. Scholars and officials examined socio-cultural legacies, diaspora identity, and memory preservation against the backdrop of colonial power and the abolition of slavery. Themes also included gender, family, and social change within indentured communities, as well as the enduring economic and cultural contributions of the Indian diaspora worldwide.

Connecting Heritage and Future

The seminar underscored the importance of connecting descendants to their heritage, fostering respect for the sacrifices of indentured labourers, and celebrating their resilience. The event encouraged dialogue across borders, reflecting a shared commitment to remembering history while strengthening ties among diasporic communities.

--Bureau Report