Pandit Rambaran Tiwari (Maharaj)

Pandit Rambaran Tiwari (Maharaj) embarked on a significant journey in the early 1900s, migrating from Uttar Pradesh, India, to Trinidad as an indentured worker in the sugarcane industry. Upon his arrival, he was stationed at the La Fortune Estate in South Trinidad, making his home in the village of La Fortune La Romain. After fulfilling his indenture contract, Panditji’s life took a new and beautiful turn when he met his wife, Sukrajie. Together, they built a large and loving family, blessed with ten children – five sons and five daughters.

Faced with the choice of returning to India, Pandit Rambaran’s deep love for his growing family led him to remain in Trinidad. He settled in the village of La Fortune woodland, in South Trinidad, where he would become an integral part of the community. Here, Panditji practiced as a respected Hindu priest (Karamkand), serving not only his own village but also the surrounding neighboring communities. His dedication and spiritual guidance made him a popular figure, becoming the cherished Pandit for many of his disciples (Chelas) and the wider village community.

His legacy of spiritual leadership continued through his eldest son, Pandit Harripersad Sharma, who followed in his father’s footsteps to become a Pandit. The great Pandit Rambaran Tiwari was deeply loved by his godchildren and disciples, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. He peacefully passed away in 1949 and was laid to rest in the Village of La Fortune woodland, South Trinidad.

(Copyright Ashram Sharma 2025)