Mangri Rambharose – A proud centenarian

Mangri Rambharose, a Surinamese by birth, proudly celebrated her 100^th birthday yesterday. In the presence of her many relatives who visited her to celebrate such a milestone, she expressed how thankful she was that God has given her good health and allowed her to live a full and happy life.

Fondly known as “Mai”, Mangri moved to Guyana at an early age after marrying her Guyanese husband, Nandi Rambharose. The couple met in Suriname and settled at Sand Hill, Demerara River, during the colonial period. However, they soon relocated to Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, (EBD) after having a few children.

She and her husband parented 10 children in total, six Guyanese by birth and four Surinamese. Her family is indeed blessed as “Mai” is now surrounded by 35 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and 21 great-great-grandchildren.
Mangri’s relatives boasted that their lineage also extends to Suriname where an extended family resides. Over the last 100 years this matriarch has worn many hats including farmer, wife, sister, aunt and mother.

“Mai” is also multilingual, often switching from English to Dutch to Hindi and “taki taki” (a Surinamese dialect) in one conversation.

At 100, her activities are limited, but she still enjoys cooking the traditional way on the fireside and indulging in many of her favourite foods including chicken curry and dhal puri.

As a young woman she enjoyed dancing and that is still a hobby which she embraces today with high spirits, sound mind and a jovial nature.
This centenarian can also hold anyone in spirited conversation, sharing stories of old times and giving sound advice. The only surviving sibling of five, “Mai” is by no means lonely as she is surrounded daily by loving family members.