Pandit Surujnarine Panday (Maharaj)

Pandit Surujnarine Panday (Maharaj): A Life Dedicated to Faith and Community

Pandit Surujnarine Panday, affectionately known as Pandit Pachkowrie Maharaj, was a cherished spiritual leader born in the early 1900s in the town of Penal, South Trinidad, W.I. He was the beloved son of the late Pandit Ramsahai Panday, who had immigrated to the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago from Basti, Uttar Pradesh, India, and Shrimati Ramkalia Panday.

From a young age, Pandit Surujnarine harbored a deep desire to follow in his ancestral tradition and become a Pandit. His early education in Karamkanda and Panditai began under the tutelage of his father. This foundational knowledge was further enriched through the guidance of his esteemed father-in-law, the late Pandit Bidharti Pandit of Penal, a man renowned for his wisdom.

Pandit Surujnarine’s spiritual development was also significantly influenced by the illustrious Pandit Basdeo Misir of Mt. Lambert, North Trinidad, and the legendary Pandit Jankie Persad Sharma of Debe, South Trinidad. These associations undoubtedly shaped his understanding and practice of Hinduism.

His journey as a Pandit commenced in his own village, where his profound knowledge and dedication quickly earned him recognition. The residents of Penal, recognizing his spiritual eminence, entrusted him with the responsibility of becoming the resident Pandit for the sacred Patiram Trace Shiva Mandir (Svayambhu Lingam Mandir). Following this pivotal role, Pandit Surujnarine’s reputation as a knowledgeable and devoted Pandit grew, leading him to serve devotees across the island of Trinidad.

In his personal life, Pandit Surujnarine found immense joy in his marriage to his beautiful wife, Latchmin. Together, they were blessed with six children: Ramdularie, Harripersad, Dhanrajie, Ramrajie, Chanardai, and Sarojanie. Despite his commitments in Trinidad, Pandit ji maintained close ties with his dear uncle and other relatives in India, reflecting his strong connection to his ancestral roots.

Pandit Surujnarine was deeply devoted to his numerous chelas (disciples), offering guidance and support to those near and far. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his community left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

On May 19th, 1979, Pandit Surujnarine Panday departed this earthly realm, leaving a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and countless chelas. His legacy of faith, service, and community spirit continues to be remembered by all who knew him.

You can also visit this interesting link of pandits past and present of Trinidad and Tobago where you are sure to see a familiar face https://hindisongstt.com/photos/pandits-past-present-of-trinidad/ There is another link of great interest of pandits conducting ceremonies https://hindisongstt.com/photos/pandits-of-trinidad-conducting-ceremonies/ We are making a kind request to any family, friends or chelas who may hold precious memories in the form of photos, audios or videos of these great and learned pandits to inbox us these memories  at hindisongstt@gmail.com so we may share for the enjoyment of all. (Copyright Pandit Ashram Sharma 2025)