These records contain the names of the 225 Indians who, on this day 179 years ago, arrived in Trinidad. Aboard the “Fatel Razack” (Victory of Allah the Provider) for five months this group, mostly adults in their 20s, marked the start of Indian indentureship in 1845.

Between 1845 and 1917, 143,939 “jahajees” (ship passengers) came as replacement labour following the abolition of chattel slavery in 1833 and emancipation of slaves in 1838. The majority came from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in North India, some from Bengal and Madras (South India).

About 85% of them were Hindu and 14% Muslim. While many fled famine and poverty, there were instances of forced migration and kidnappings. Whether they chose to go willingly or not, there was major deception by the “arkatiya” (recruiters) hired by the Europeans.

Most were unaware of the dismal living conditions and minimal wages ahead of them. Some believed they were going to another region of India or nearby colony. Many others were promised riches and guaranteed free passage back to the homeland after their contracts ended.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, Indian labourers bonded over the trauma of sea travel on the “kala pani” (black waters). They were shoved into cramped spaces and subject to outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, measles, and dysentery on the ships.

Infanticide, food shortages, physical abuse, and adverse weather were daily occurrences. Many died before even seeing land and their bodies were thrown overboard. After being housed in former slave barracks and assigned to estates, they endured beatings, assault, withholding of…

…Payment, heavy fines, punishment for rebellion from the estate “sirdar” (overseer), and restrictions on their movement outside of plantations. In spite of all this, they survived. Jai Jahajee! Jahajee Jindabad!

Source: National Archives of Trinidad and the Indian High Commission

If you enlarge any of these vessel records it is a common sight to see the word “Dead” written next to the names of the “jahaaji” (male ship travelers) and “jahaajin” (female travelers), reminding us that the arrival of indentured labourers was always linked with survival.