BAVINA SOOKDEO
HINDU prayer ceremonies, known for their rich traditions and intricate rituals, require various offerings and items. From flowers, leaves, and coins to specially-prepared sweets and flags, the preparations can be overwhelming for devotees.
In recent years, the role of naaws (also spelled naw, nau, or nawe) has become essential in assisting pundits and devotees in organising and preparing for these ceremonies.
One such individual is Richard Rishi Balgobin, of Fyzabad, who has been a naaw for 25 years. Due to his expertise, Balgobin is now booked months in advance, a testament to the importance of his role in the Hindu community.
In an interview, Balgobin shared how his journey began.
“This tradition was not passed down to me by my family. I became a naaw after many years of attending temple and various religious functions and having to assist with preparations.”
[caption id="attachment_1117420" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Lapsi and suhari arranged on a tray by Richard Balgobin. Lapsi and suhari, a sandwich made of roti and a thick, sweet filling made of milk inside, is used during puja to the Hindu goddess Mother Durga, the protective mother of the universe. - Photo courtesy Richard Balgobin[/caption]
His love for pujas and genuine desire to help ensure religious ceremonies are conducted properly, inspired him to take on this important role.
“It’s the love for pujas (Hindu prayer ceremonies), weddings, funerals, shavings (the ceremonial shaving of the head showing grief for someone who has died), and bandharas (purification of the environs and serving of food after funeral rituals have been completed) once they are being done properly,” he said.
How one becomes a naaw in Trinidad and Tobago?
Balgobin said for some, the tradition is passed down through generations, while others work closely with a particular pundit to learn the nuances of preparing for ceremonies.
“I, on the other hand, can organise for any pundit,” he stated, proudly highlighting his versatility.
While some organisations may offer formal training, Balgobin said he learned through hands-on experience, observing and assisting at religious events over the years. One key piece of advice he received from a pundit stuck with him: “You are going to meet different people from different environments, cultures, and with different attitudes, so you just have to know how to handle things tactfully,” Balgobin recalled.
This advice, from pundit Ashram Maharaj of Avocat, has helped him navigate his work effectively. Balgobin’s responsibilities as a naaw are wide-ranging.
“My work entails the gathering of flowers, leaves, bamboo, and putting all puja materials in place for the ceremony.”
He also assists with special requirements like making parsad (holy offerings), sweet rice, and other sweets. For him, the most fulfilling aspect of his work is the satisfaction of knowing everything is properly organised.
[caption id="attachment_1117418" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Parsad (holy offerings) arranged in a thali
