AboutSukhjender Pal Singh Expertise I can answer questions about india and its states and as I have travelled india extensively (except for far eastern states) I can help you with major tourist destination in india (I am a hotel graduate).
Experience i have worked for hotels for past ten years and have travelled alot, i was born and brought up in andamans.
Question MY greatgrandfather name was Raghubhans Singh and migrated from India to Guyana sometime around 1858. Believe the ship name was either Vile, Aurora, or Hope. I am visiting India for the first time in few months and would like to pinpoint his hometown. I am somewhat aware that he might have come from one of the northern states of UP or Bihar. Thanks in advance for your assistance my friend and any information would be of greatly appreciated.
Answer Dear Mr. NandKumar,
The name of your Great Grandfather sounds like from one of the Northern States or "the Cow Belt" States. The name sounds like that of a 'Thakur', which is a very pwerful community in 'the cowbelt' region.
Incase you are trying to trace your origin or roots back in India, than I will suggest you to get intouch with the Indian Embassy in Guyana or where ever you are. According to my knowledge (which is thro News report) there is a mechanism in place aided by The Government of India, which helps people like you to trace back their origin in India. Apart from that, there are also few NGOs who extend help in tracing the roots and lineage for People of Indian Origin (PIO). Though I am not sure, there is even a ministery in Indian Government, which take care of Indian diaspora living around the world.
I would like to forewarn you to please take precautions and do your home work before coming to India, There are many Groups and Individuals who are fake and might take you for a ride, fleecing you of your money and time. Just be careful that you talk to the right people and at right places only.
As your great grand father left India long long back, it might take some time for you to find about your ancestral village or place and also people belonging to your family. It is difficult but not impossible. Many from your region have been successful in tracing out their origin including one of your state leader (whose name i am not able to recollect).
All the best,
Sukhjender
