Pandit Ganpat Maharaj (Chaki Pandit – Former Upadharmacharya of Trinidad)

Pandit Ganpat Maharaj, fondly known as Pandit Chaki, was a deeply respected spiritual figure and former Upadharmacharya of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS) in Trinidad and Tobago. He was born on March 26, 1940, in St. Charles Village Princes Town to Pandit Rampersad Maharaj and Shrimatie Samoondari Maharaj, beginning a life that would profoundly touch countless souls.

Growing up in Claxton Bay, Trinidad, Pandit Ganpat’s path was clear from an early age: he was drawn to Panditai, the sacred traditions of Hindu priesthood. His own father, Pandit Rampersad Maharaj, was his first guide, bringing him along to perform pujas across Trinidad. The esteemed Pandit Druid Sharma of Hermitage Village, Claxton Bay, further nurtured his spiritual understanding, sharing invaluable scriptural knowledge. By the remarkable age of 14, young Ganpat was already confidently leading his own pujas, serving devotees throughout the nation.

In 1965, Pandit Ganpat Maharaj found his life partner in the graceful Shrimatie Ratnawalie Sharma, daughter of Pandit Ramoogra Sharma (former President of SDMS Pandits Parishad) and Shrimatie Popliet Sharma from Cumuto. Together, they formed a family rooted in spiritual devotion.

Pandit Ganpat Maharaj quickly became a dedicated member of the Pandits Parishad of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha. His profound wisdom and unwavering commitment were swiftly recognized, leading to the distinguished title of Upadharmacharya of Trinidad and Tobago, a role he faithfully held until his passing. For many years, Panditji also served as the very spiritual heart of the Lakshmi Sabha Mandir in Claxton Bay, selflessly guiding his community.

His dedication knew no bounds; he poured his entire life into his chelas (disciples) and devotees, performing countless pujas and ceremonies. His spiritual reach extended far beyond Trinidad’s shores, with journeys to India, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Guyana, and Suriname, bringing solace and blessings to countless more. Panditji also maintained close affiliations with the revered Pandit Krishna Maharaj of Caroni, the former Dharmacharya of Trinidad and Tobago, who profoundly shaped his understanding through the invaluable scriptural knowledge he imparted, and the well-respected Pandit Ramsumasar Maharaj from Las Lomas, Trinidad.

Pandit Ganpat Maharaj and his beloved wife were the proud parents of two sons, Pandit Ravi (Rishi) Maharaj in New York and Pandit Deanesh Maharaj in Florida, both of whom have honorably chosen to walk in their esteemed father’s spiritual footsteps. However, his enduring spiritual lineage extends even further, encompassing the many young Pandits in Trinidad and Tobago he lovingly initiated and inspired, who now carry forward his sacred work with unwavering dedication and devotion.

August 15, 2023, marked a day of profound sadness for Trinidad and Tobago, as this great spiritual luminary transitioned from this earthly realm. Pandit Ganpat Maharaj’s life was a powerful testament to his deep faith, selfless service, and inspiring leadership, leaving an indelible and cherished legacy within the Hindu community and beyond.

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).