Indo-Surinamese are also known locally by the Dutch term Hindoestanen (Dutch pronunciation:[ˌɦɪnduˈstaːnə(n)]), derived from the word Hindustani, lit., "someone from Hindustan" (India).[1] Hence, when Indians migrated to Suriname they were referred to as Hindustanis, people of Indian origin.
During the heyday of the British Raj/Empire, many people from India were sent to other British colonies for work. After the abolition of slavery in the Dutch colony of Suriname, the Dutch were allowed by the British Raj to recruit labourers in certain parts of the North-Indian United Provinces.
Religion
The majority religion among the community is Hinduism, practiced by 70% of the people, followed by Islam and Christianity. Among the Hindus about 60% follow traditional Hinduism that they call Sanatan Dharm to differentiate themselves from the 25% who belong to the reform movement Arya Samaj, started by Dayananda Saraswati. Among the Indo-Surinamese Muslims, 60% follow Sunni Islam and 40% Ahmadiyya.
