Obituary of Premawatie Maraj

Manika Premawatie Maraj, was born in Alexander Village, Guyana, to Joseph Harry Persaud and Girja (Betty) Persaud. Despite experiencing the loss of her eldest sister two years prior and her younger brother's passing in 2023, Manika's legacy persists in the hearts of those she encountered.

Manika attended the prestigious  St Joesh High School in Georgetown Guyana and At the tender age of 18, Manika married Bhowan Narine Maraj and swiftly welcomed two daughers in one year. What a feat indeed!

Despite the heartbreak of losing a third daughter who was only 1 year and 9 days old, Manika and Bhowan found solace in each other ana eventually welcoming three more beautiful daughters into their lives.

Born into a family of spiritual leaders, Manika embraced her role with grace and humility. As the niece of Pandit Hari Narine Sharma fondly know aw Pandit Rama the - Dharam Acharya for Guyana, Manika  carried with her the values of compassion, service, and devotion throughout her life.

Together, Manika and Bhowan established a beautiful, successful  life in Kitty, where Manika pursued her passion for sewing, honing her skills as a skilled seamstress. Her love and devotion extended far beyond the walls of her home. She was a guiding light, offering boundless love and support to everyone in need. Her generosity and hospitality were legendary, and she was known for her willingness to go above and beyond to help others.

She played a leading role in organizing stage shows for Diwali and Phagwah Melas alongside Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, and she coordinated the Diwali Motorcades that brought joy to the Hindu community. She was also a dedicated member of the Lions Club, serving those in need.

In 1986, Manika and her family relocated to Canada to join her daughter Shobha. There, she found fulfillment in her work at Ellen Hendersons Designs and then at Fabricland

 Alongside her husband, who served as the president of the Indo Caribbean Golden Age, she dedicated herself to serving  as the secretary, organizing group travels, and fostering camaraderie among members. 

Manika's dedication extended to her children and grandchildren, many of whom actively participated in cultural and religious activities. Her influence even reached her daughter's dance school, where most of her grandchildren served as dance choreographers, and her second daughter became a prominent Indian singer in the community, echoing the cultural traditions passed down by Manika.

Manika's commitment to her community was exemplified by her hosting of the annual Kitty-Campbellville-Alexander Village picnic for more than a decade 

Manika's commitment to her community was unparalleled. She hosted the annual Kitty-Campbellville-Alexander Village picnic for over a decade, bringing joy and unity to her community. 

Additionally, she graciously opened her home to host yagnas by Pandit Shree Prakash Gossai, exemplifying her unwavering spiritual values as well as being the first to bring Shri Prakash Gossai for yagnas at Devi Mandir, where she was a lifetime member

In the early 2000 she was instrumental in organizing the biggest Diwali parade in The city is Toronto. 

Her generosity to her community was unwavering  

Though Manika has passed away, her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. As we bid farewell, may her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire us all to live lives filled with love, service, and compassion.

Ram Naam Satya Hai. Manika Maraj - Though you may be gone, your light will shine on forever in our hearts.