Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo O.R.T.T., President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, notes with sadness the passing of Dr. Deokinanan Sharma.
Dr. Sharma was the visionary founder and former President of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) and was the driving force behind the Divali Nagar, which traditionally ushers in the annual Festival of Lights, Divali.
He is celebrated for his immense contributions to the cultural landscape of Trinidad and Tobago, particularly in promoting Indian culture through his roles with the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha and the National Hindu Youth Organisation.
In recognition of his work, Dr. Sharma was awarded the Hummingbird Medal Gold in 1995 for his contributions to culture and received an honorary Doctor of Law degree (LLD) from the University of the West Indies in 2012.
The Office of the President extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Dr. Deokinanan Sharma.
Photo courtesy NCIC’s Facebook page.