'Chunauti deta hoon': Hindi echoes in Guyana Parliament as MP issues fluent floor challenge

Hindi pride moment in Guyana Parliament (Video grab)

Thousands of miles from the Hindi heartland, the language took centre stage in Guyana’s Parliament after ruling party MP Vikash Ramkisoon was challenged by the Opposition over his command of it.

Responding firmly, Ramkisoon issued a public challenge on the floor of the House, saying, "Main unhe chunauti deta hoon, vishay woh tay karenge, aur main abhi bina kagaz ke debate karoonga." (I challenge them — they can decide the topic, and I will debate right now without any papers.)

Addressing fellow lawmakers, he reiterated, "Vishey woh tay karein, main jawab dunga bina Kagaz dekhey" (They can decide the topic, I will respond without using a paper). His remarks, delivered in a calm yet assertive tone, drew attention across the chamber.

Ramakisoon stressed that he could speak confidently and fluently in Hindi, pushing back against claims that he lacked proficiency. His composed demeanour became a focal point of the parliamentary session.

The exchange soon resonated beyond Parliament, with his remarks circulating widely among Guyana’s Indian-origin community and the wider diaspora, many of whom saw it as an expression of cultural pride.

A video of the moment was first shared on the official X account of the High Commission of India in Georgetown, Guyana. Although the post was later deleted, it was widely viewed and shared in a short span of time.

Guyana has a significant population descended from Indian indentured labourers. While English is the country’s official language, Hindi continues to hold cultural significance.

Ramakisoon, who holds a master’s degree in commerce and finance and a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Delhi University, assumed office on September 13, 2025. In recent months, he has sought to strengthen links between India and Guyana, reflecting shared heritage and linguistic ties through his public interventions.