TESTIMONIALS :: NEWS

Sita Ram Prakashji: I was in Guyana in the week of Holi after almost 25 years (1 month short) absence. The most remarkable impression as I travelled on the West Demerara was your dynamic influence on the people I spoke with. Personalities became endearing and charming as I mentioned your name and our interactions in New York from time to time. Every morning I would spend time listening to your Kathas on the TV broadcasts. The mornings were indeed refreshing.

Reflecting on the state in which I left Guyana 25 years ago, as I passed the villages along the Demerara and Corentyne coastline I could not help but be glued to the attractive edifices that dot the coastline – the Temples and Siva Mandirs (the latter in front of the homes of residents). I was and am convinced that Sri Krishna has appeared in Guyana – in the hearts of the Hindus. I am convinced that Guyana is experiencing a renaissance; and you are part of it - Dharma staapan arthaa-ya...

It would have been great to meet with you in Guyana. However, regrettable my visit was short – 1 week, and obviously not enough after such a long absence. Then there were 2 National Holidays. Notwithstanding that, Once again I enjoyed Holi in Windsor Forest as I did 25 years ago. It was a great feeling. Everyday I spent in Guyana I felt that she is calling me back.And that call I want to answer – perhaps again later this year and definitely next year. 'I came, I saw and ...was bewitched!'

Sometime when you are in New York I hope to have the privilege of meeting you.

Ram Budhu
Email: rambudhu@hotmail.com

March 17, 2007
Presidential Assistant Gossai sworn in as JP

SPECIAL Assistant to President Bharrat Jagdeo, Pandit Prakash Gossai has been appointed a Commissioner of Oaths to Affidavits and Justice of Peace (JP).

The Government Information Agency (GINA) said he was sworn before Acting Chief Magistrate Cecil Sullivan in the chambers of Chief Justice Carl Singh on Tuesday.

Mr. Gossai said he was happy about his commission and it would help to further his humanitarian work, GINA reported.

His appointment as Special Assistant to the Head of State was announced earlier this year and he has been functioning in that capacity since, GINA said.

The agency said Gossai performs multi-faceted duties, due to his skills, experience and integrity.

He is a remigrant from the United States and, according to him, he is very pleased about his appointment as he always wanted to return and serve his country, GINA said.

According to GINA, Gossai, who is especially interested in working with children and youths, grew up in Berbice and attended Cummings Lodge Secondary School, East Coast Demerara, before studying Medical Technology at the University of Guyana and majoring in Religious Philosophy in India.

Thursday, December 12, 2006
MR. PRAKASH Gossai, leader of the Bhuvaneshwar Mandir in New York is to serve as an aide to President Bharrat Jagdeo, with responsibility, among other things, for ethnic relations and culture, the organization announced yesterday.

In a press release, the Hindu group said Gossai has already taken steps to consult others, “for he recognizes the vast potential out there that could be constructively harnessed in the quest of nation building.”

“His acceptance of a job in Guyana would not minimize this obligation to the mandir. He will still manage the mandir, and plans to return here twice monthly. The Bhuvaneshwar Mandir is too close to his heart to be removed from centre stage”, the release said.

“This is also a great moment of recognition for our community in New York, as the President has identified one of us with the requisite skills/talent to serve our country, Guyana, at a higher level”, the organization said.

Monday, July 12, 2004
President Bharrat Jagdeo congratulates Shri Prakash Gossai after the special investiture ceremony at State House on Saturday. Shri Prakash Gossai receives Medal of Service at special investiture ceremony.

GINA - A special Investiture Ceremony was arranged at State House on Saturday to present Shri Prakash Gossai with a National Award -- the Medal of Service (MS).

Shri Prakash Gossai is decorated with the Medal of Service by President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Shri Prakash was one of the National Awardees for the 2002 investiture, but because of pressing circumstances could not attend the ceremony.

The special ceremony was held at the request of President Bharrat Jagdeo, who presented the award.

Speaking after the presentation, President Jagdeo said he has known the recipient for some time now and is impressed with his knowledge of the Scriptures.

According to the President, during his recent visit to New York, he visited the Hindu Temple where Shri Prakash Gossai is doing a "wonderful job teaching young people to uphold the Hindu Scriptures."

The National Award was presented to Shri Prakash Gossai for long and dedicated service in religious work.