How the Sindhi community helped

fuel commerce in Calicut

By Ajay Kamalakaran

When thinking of the vast number of ethnicities and nationalities that formed a part of Kerala’s melting pot, Sindhis are probably the last community that comes to one’s mind. Given their traditional sense of enterprise and migration in search of opportunities it should hardly surprise anyone that the community found itself in Calicut in the 19th century.

A few years after the 1857 War of Independence, word spread in the historic southern Punjab city of Multan (now in Pakistan) that there were several opportunities in the Malabar region of the Madras Presidency. A pioneering group of Sindhi moneylenders then embarked on a long journey first through land to Karachi and then via the sea to western India and again overland till they reached Calicut. Nineteenth century Malabar was less volatile than rural Punjab and Sindh, where disputes over borrowed money and repayment inflamed communal tensions from time to time. The Sindhi entrepreneurs were also armed with the knowledge that they would have the protection of the British Raj. They were also devotees of Jhulelal, who many believers considered an incarnation of Varuna, the Hindu god of water.

In his book, A Tourist’s Guide to Calicut, the city’s most famous guide K Mohan wrote that the Sindhis arrived in Calicut before the Railways. “It was reported that they came after crossing the Beypore (Chaliyar) river up to which the railway line extended till 1861,” according to Mohan.

The first group of settlers consisted only of men, but soon the community started to bring their wives and start families in Calicut. Although they were all in the same profession, they were a closely-knit community. The moneylenders lived in houses on Silk Street, using a portion of their home as an office. They also built the Sindhi Darbar, a community temple that survives till this day.

Loans to traders and exporters

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Calicut was a major port from where spices, tea and timber was exported. It attracted migrants from all over India who looked to make their fortunes from the demand for products from Kerala in the West.

The local Sindhi community was at the forefront of providing loans to these traders and merchants. They seemed to enjoy immense success in the booming city during that period. In his book, Mohan wrote that very few traders defaulted on their loans. “Those who defaulted were not taken to a court of law, but they were settled from out of court,” according to Mohan. Loans were only given by a Sindhi moneylender after consulting other members of the community.

It was a daily practice for members of the community to meet in the evenings and discuss the day’s dealings. “They really knew the pulse of the people and the money market,” Mohan wrote.

Although members of the community became fluent Malayalam speakers and were well integrated into the wider society, they did not intermarry with Keralites or others in the city. The Sindhis also managed to preserve their language, religious and cultural customs, celebrating festivals with gusto and inviting members of other communities to take part in them.

Numbering a few hundred at its peak in the 1930s, the Sindhi community in Calicut began to dwindle in the 1950s. They blamed a combination of trade-union politics and harassment of traders from over-zealous bureaucrats for the city’s economic decline. Post-Indian independence, the community did not have a ‘home state’ to migrate to as Multan went to West Punjab and the entire state of Sindh became a part of Pakistan at the time of the division of the country. Some families moved to Mangalore, while some other settled closer to Bombay. A few even went to Cochin, which had a small community of Sindhis who came to the city after the Partition of India.

At the moment, Calicut has about 10 Sindhi families. The Sindhi Darbar remains the main centre of community activities such as the celebration of festivals such as Cheti Chand. Members of the wider Sindhi community in Kerala set up a Facebook page in 2011 but unfortunately it has not been updated in 10 years.

Given how much a blend of ethnicities Calicut is, it is hard to tell the light-skinned Sindhis apart from others in the traditional city centre. Even their Malayalam has the distinct accent that is a trademark of this region. Those familiar with the Sindhi language would probably be able to tell their accent and usage of Saraiki words apart, things that survived their long journey from southwestern Punjab to the coast of Kerala.

Ajay Kamalakaran is a writer and independent journalist, primarily based in Mumbai

This article was first published in OnManorama

THE DIFFICULTY OF BEING GOOD

By Tikam Matai

I went through a wonderful book of great writer of India “ The Difficulty of Being Good”. Written by Gurcharan Das. His writing is based on voluminous epic of Mahabharata. He throws light on each and every character of Mahabharata.

Repeated request from respected counselor Vidura of King Dhritarashtra to stop his wicked son Duryodhana from proceeding with the Dice game.

 Yudhishthira Being too Good lost this Dice game with Mama Shakuni due to cheating tactics of Mama Shakuni. With the result Duryodhana wanted.

Draupadi to be disrobed in public, which in turn brought war of Mahabharata. In general Mahabharata is psychological roots of human motivation. 

Anger, hate, jealousy and insecurity. But according Sages and Saints the purpose of life is to be Happy. Since the creation of this planet there is always war between good and evil. Human History is full of Wars, these wars will never end because there are so many monsters in this world with friendly faces.

When people are in an extreme state of doubt or despair they often look to a higher source for comfort and direction. God is known as only Truth.

He is the Doer, we are just tools in His hands. He creates, He preserves, He destroys.

According to Bhagawat Gita, we have to do right Karmas. Do not hurt, do not hate, do not lie, do not cheat. All religious traditions carry the same message i.e Love, Compassion and Forgiveness.

According to Swami Rama Krishna Permahansa: One must have tremendous faith that the utterance of His name burns away all sins.

How absurd to repeat the Lord’s name day and night and talk of sin in the same breathe. 

When we move our focus from competition to contribution, life becomes celebration. Never try to defeat people try to win their hearts. (Lord Budha)

A question was asked from Swami Vivekananda: What you gain by prayers. His reply was I gained nothing, in fact I lost anger, depression, jealously, irritation and insecurity.

Our real power is our own thinking and our attitude, otherwise all else is flesh and bones. (Rumi)

A question was asked from Swami Rama Krishna: When one can achieve Kundlini? (Kundlini is highest stage of Sadhna) His reply was, “When one dismiss I and You. I means Ego. You means hatred for others, then only one can achieve Kundlini.

Ego “I” is worst thing. To me even starting with one minute Prayers in the morning and one minute prayers before going to bed  will bring miracles and transformation.

Morning: Oh! Lord, Oh! Parmatma: I am starting my new day, make my day beautiful, show me right path with all Your Love & Blessings.

Evening: Oh! lord, Oh!  Parmatma:  I had a nice day, I am Blessed with your Love & Grace, please show me right path and give me right intelligence. (Tikam Matai)

Fragments of my Mind

By Monica Gokaldas - Sikiladi

Sikiladi (Monica Gokaldas) launches “Fragments of my Mind” an anthology of her poems.

It was a Red Letter Day for Monica Gokaldas on 17 th June 2023 as she officially launched her Anthology of poems as a book titled “Fragments of My Mind”. The book which happens to be the first Coffee Table Poetry Book published in Kenya consists of poems penned by Monica under her pen name SIKILADI during the five year period of 2015 to 2020 of which several had previously been published in the Kenyan weekly newspaper The Asian Weekly and some other community magazines and souvenirs of religious organizations.

The Book Launch was organized by Monica’s daughter Bhavna Gokaldas at Nairobi’s posh Westgate Mall through ‘Educate Yourself’ Book store where she answered questions by the very well-known media personalities on the panel: Ms. Parveen Adam, Mr. Kunjan Dholakia who were joined by Pauline Waigwe a former employee who proof read and helped compile the poetry works.

Monica’s poetry ranges from Nature, relationships, family feel, celebrations, bereavement to social events, current scenarios, cultural aspects as well as terror and in contrast a celebration of life events. She has also penned poetry reflecting the Sindhi pride and pain depicting various aspects of Being Sindhi under her series of poems by the same title.

Amongst dignitaries present at the launch were:

• The Chairperson of Hindu Council of Kenya, Mrs. Sujata Kotamraju,

• The past Chairman of The Asian Foundation and a famous philanthropist Dr. Chandu Sheth,

• The award winning ophthalmologist and professor Dr. (Mrs.) Prabha Choksey who runs her own Dr. Prabha Choksey Albinism Foundation

• Mrs. Ketaki Sheth, A trustee and Director of the Victoria Commercial Bank also a well-known corporate Lawyer.

• Mr. Raghunath Shetty, National Executive member of BJP (The ruling party of India) from India.

• Mrs. Aruna Varsani, The award winning founder of Together for Better – a charitable organization working towards female genital sanitization and menstrual health.

• Mr. Surendra Bhatia, the Chairman of Sindhi Welfare Society and the Vice Chairperson of Hindu Council of Kenya

Monica mentioned that her poems have always been published under her pen name Sikiladi and that she is proud of her Sindhi lineage. The book has forewords from her Godfather Mr. Nanalal Sheth (a prominent lawyer, advocate who passed away just a week prior to the book launch), Daduzen, the Sindhi author and philanthropist from Hong Kong, Guruji Anand Krishna, a Spiritual guru of Sindhi lineage based in Bali, The directors of the Asian Weekly amongst some others.

Being a Reiki Master has influenced her poetry in several ways as Monica comes into close contact with Cancer patients, orphans, destitute and abused girls, senior citizens and children at the slums as she often ventures into the rough terrain areas as a healer, trying to give a helping hand to the less fortunate and suffering members of the society. She has felt the pain and suffering like her own and poured it out on paper. A close observer of human traits her poetry often depicts descriptive qualities of relationships and grief.

Being an introvert, Poetry has brought out a confident side to Monica’s personality as she has performed with her recitations at book club events, private functions and several tributes and odes at funerals.

Sharing some forewords:

OBSERVE the observer – The Sikiladi poetry collection is an anthology of poems emanating from the depth of the Authors being-ness.

The poems are like an opulent fountain springing forth from a truly sensitive and compassionate heart.

From a mind that yearns for fair play and justice and from a soul that whispers the longings and memories of love of a thousand yesterdays.

She has indeed covered a wide range of poetry from awe and wonder to reminiscing the past, from festivals to philosophy in an attempt to find Solace and unity in the diversity of her sentiments and poems.

This book is an eye cum heart opener and recommended for bedside reading to caress your soul in gentleness each night.

Sadhu Vaswani Mission

 By Team PRO

Sadhu Vaswani Mission - Pune

September 12, 2023, in a historic ceremony for India and the Sadhu Vaswani Mission, the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais released a commemorative postage stamp in honour and homage to Dada J.P. Vaswani. Gracing the event as the Guests of Honour were esteemed ministerial dignitaries including the Minister of State for Communication Shri Devusinh Chauhan and Shri Shankar Lalwani MLA. Before the commencement of the ceremony, the Hon’ble Governor and dignitaries visited the Darshan Museum – a state-of-the-art museum that depicts the life and teachings of the great saint, Sadhu T.L. Vaswani.

The ceremony began with the singing of the National Anthem followed by the State Song. All dignitaries on the dais came together for the lamp lighting. A felicitation of the Hon'ble Governor and other dignitaries at the hands of Didi Krishna Kumari, Executive Head of Sadhu Vaswani Mission was held.

Following this an AV on Dada J.P. Vaswani was played. Didi Krishna Kumari gave a welcome address. She expressed her sincere gratitude to all the dignitaries for the efforts that led to the fruition of the postage stamp. Speaking on Dada, she said, “Dada’s life is his message. He did not teach or preach but he bore witness to every ideal in deeds of daily living. His message to us was two-fold – make God the centre of your life. Build your life in Him.”. This was followed by a recorded AV of Dada J.P. Vaswani. It highlighted the message of love. He said, “The nations and individuals alike must love another or perish! Bear witness to love in everyday life! Unfold the seven colours of love – patience, kindness, humility, forgiveness, desirelessness, sacrificial, universality”.

Next, the Minister of State for Communication Shri Devusinh Chauhan addressing the gathering said, “We feel blessed that today India Post has the opportunity to release a commemorative stamp in homage to Dadaji. Dada's persona is such that thinking of him makes us want to bow down before him. Dada's talks tell us that despite this age of technology and advancement, there is a spiritual evolution that is most needed. His teachings continue to remind us that regardless of the material wealth we gather, it is important that we work on our spirit. His life is an inspiration. Our true tribute to him would be to walk the way of his teachings and ideals.”

Finally, at 12:50 hrs, the milestone moment arrived; the Hon’ble Governor officially released the commemorative postage stamp on Dada J.P. Vaswani. He also released books authored by Dada – Nark Se Swarg Tak, a translation of ‘From Hell to Heaven’ and ‘Swatah Saksham Bana’, a translation of Empower Yourself.

Taking to the podium, the Chief Guest for the ceremony, the Hon’ble Governor, Shri Ramesh Bais in his address to all said, “The land of Maharashtra has seen the birth of several revered saints. Dadaji, like Swami Vivekananda, was the messenger of peace and harmony in Maharashtra. His Mission serves one and all regardless of caste, creed, or race. Today, we are all gathered to reflect on his teachings and pay homage to him through the issue of this commemorative postage stamp. I offer my obeisance to him and salutations to his humanitarian works.”

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks.

The commemorative stamp will be available at the local India Post offices.    

********** 

CALL TO ACTION!

By Raja Sand

Team Leader Shah Jo Rislao Multilingual

Umerkot, Sindh Pakistan

 

I would like to introduce the readers of Sindhi Samachar to the timeless poetry and literary genius of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, one of the most revered Sufi poets in the history of Sindhi literature. His work, known as Shah Jo Risalo, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sindh and has transcended time, inspiring generations with its spiritual depth and poetic brilliance.

I would like to introduce Team Raja Sand, a dedicated group of individuals who have tirelessly worked for years to develop the Shah Jo Risalo Multilingual App. It's important to note that Team Raja Sand operates as a non-profit, non-political team, driven solely by their mission to spread the Sindhi language and Sindhi culture worldwide. Their unwavering commitment and passion for this cause have been nothing short of remarkable, and their hard work has finally come to fruition with the app's availability on both the Play Store and the App Store, making the poetry of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai accessible to a global audience in multiple languages. This app is completely free and also it is ad-free, offers a convenient platform for enthusiasts to explore the profound verses of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai in various languages, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of his poetry.

The Shah Jo Risalo Multilingual App is a comprehensive treasure trove for enthusiasts of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai's poetry, offering an impressive array of features. It boasts a collection of 20 books in 9 different languages/scripts i.e. English, Sindhi, Devanagari, Urdu, Punjabi, Gurmukhi, Saraiki, Shahmukhi and Dhatki, ensuring accessibility for diverse audiences. What sets it apart is its flexibility, allowing users to change the app menu to their preferred language. With features like copy/share verses, notes making, bookmarks, and an audio playback option, it enhances the poetry experience. The app simplifies research with its word search functionality and accommodates various reading preferences with bright, sepia, and dark screen modes, customizable fonts, and font sizes. Additionally, the unique "verse on image" feature enables users to create and share beautifully designed verses on any platform. With its user-friendly interface and bug-free coding, the app truly offers a comprehensive and delightful experience for poetry enthusiasts and scholars alike.

App can be installed by visiting the official play store/app store below:
For Android devices

For IOS devices

(Also works on Macbook)

Furthermore, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to the Sindhi Association of North America (SANA) for their remarkable effort in owning and featuring this app on SANA's official website welcome screen and main page. Their dedication to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage is truly commendable.

I kindly request you to consider owning the Shah Jo Risalo Multilingual App and help spread the word within your community, just as SANA has done. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai continues to thrive, inspiring countless individuals around the world with the wisdom and beauty of his poetry.

I look forward to your positive response.

**********

By Rajesh Nagpal - New Jersey, USA

**********

Job Posting

We are looking for Sindhi young men to do ware house work.

Should be about 35 years old and know about computers and a graduate.

Also good mechanics who can fix trucks and vans be able to drive fork lift.

Must know English 

Apply with qualifications to furnitureltdbarbados@gmail.com 

**********

CALL TO ACTION!

By Kashish Shivani

Kashish Shivani, a Story Scholar working with The 1947 Partition Archive, is conducting

interviews with people of Sindh, who witnessed the Partition.

So if your family member or

acquaintance is someone who would like to share their story, please reach out to her.

Her goal is to understand the effect of partition on the lives of Sindhis (both migrants and non-migrants) and record their personal histories.

The interviews can be conducted both in-person and remotely.

You can reach out to her at:

kashishkanchanshivani@gmail.com

or +919335965858.

Sindh My Love

By Raj Daswani

Sindh my love

Away from you in exile

 I realise how much

In love I am with you

Imagine the agony

Suffered by my flesh and blood

Forced to leave

In the wake of insanity

Remember their sad faces

Betraying utter dismay

Stranded with their belongings

Strewn around in the open

In the faint hope to pawn

Every humble possession

To make to safety

To the land unknown

Small children with tears in eyes

Aged and weak with deep sighs

Pained to part company

With their motherland

A small boy among them

Of my age looked at me

We both were clad in rags

Bare-footed and covered in dust

He handed me a lantern

I though hesitated

In our mother-tongue

He said “take it”

To this day

That present is with me

Was his name

Ram, Raj or Mohan?

Like me in pain

He must have grown up

Among strangers

Alien surroundings

Though my misfortunate

Was greater than his

I became alien

In my own home

No more allowed

To learn my own mother language

Nothing was own

Nothing to possess

Subservient surf I became

I protested

“This is my land too.

This is my home.”

They claimed Sindh, my love

To dungeons I was thrown in

In the dark suffocated

With other compatriots to rot

Everything changed

Unwanted I became

New masters with guns

Took all we had

Sindh my love

Will my friend and I ever?

Return to you as free land

Our home, our hearth

As long as the flame

Flickers, hope is alive

To us you belong

Forever and forever.

WINNERS OF AUGUST'S TRIVIA 

POONAM MOHAN MOTWANI

MOHAN TOTARAM MOTWANI

ASHOK R HIRWANI - Pune, Maharashtra

SEPTEMBER TRIVIA

 Fill in the blanks and guess these popular Sindhi ladas.

1. H... S... Jo R.....

2. S.. M... O S.. M...

3. H. J.....

4. M.. Tho T....

5. Sakh..... Se.... Gu... Saan S.....

Send your answers to Info@SindhiSamachaar.com for a shout out in our next issue.

A Sindhi walks into a restaurant called KARMA.

He calls out to the waiter and asks him

"There is no menu here could you please bring me a menu?"

The waiter looks at him confused and says

"Sir there is no menu....here at Karma you get what you deserve!"

Launched with love for everything Sindhi, our newsletter, Sindhi Samachar, aims to be circulated amongst our Sindhi family and friends intended to forge unity and interaction within our community. We hope our brothers and sisters globally participate and contribute towards it with your views, Sindhi news, Sindhi jokes, or Sindhi recipes, which we will be happy to publish under your name.

Editor-In-Chief

Vini Melwani

Editorial Content

Raj Daswani

Geeta Raj

Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in Sindhi Samachar by our contributors are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the editorial team of Sindhi Samachar. Any content provided by our contributors, bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.