Tributes have begun to pour in for the late Deoroop Teemal, who passed away this morning.
He was President of the NCIC and an Independent Senator.
President Christine Kangaloo: Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, expresses her heartfelt condolences on the passing of Senator Deoroop Teemul, esteemed President of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) and Independent Senator in the 13th Republican Parliament. Senator Teemul first entered the Senate in 2018 as an Independent Senator in the 11th Republican Parliament and continued to serve with distinction, dedication, and unwavering professionalism until his passing. A committed advocate for cultural preservation and development, he was widely respected for his integrity, patriotism, and service to the nation. Outside of his parliamentary contributions, Senator Teemul was a highly accomplished Civil and Structural Engineer and Project Manager with over 37 years of experience. His expertise in project management, contract administration, construction implementation, and water and wastewater engineering was sought after by major national agencies, including the Ministry of Works, NIPDEC, WASA, and the Gaspar Grande Water Supply Project. Her Excellency extends her deepest sympathy to Senator Teemul’s family, friends, colleagues, and the wider national community who mourn the loss of a man whose life was dedicated to service, culture, and country.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar: It is with profound sorrow that I received news of the passing of Independent Senator Deoroop Teemal, President of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), who left us in the early hours of Sunday, 3 August 2025. On behalf of the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, I extend sincere condolences to his wife Geeta, their two daughters, the wider Teemal family, the NCIC fraternity, and all who valued his friendship and counsel. For more than two decades, Senator Teemal served culture and country with distinction. As President of the NCIC and a senior organiser of Divali Nagar, he championed the preservation and celebration of Indo-Trinidadian heritage, fostering mutual respect across our diverse society. In the Senate, his measured analyses, courtesy, and steadfast commitment to the public good earned universal respect. In my many interactions with Senator Teemal — at the Divali Nagar, community forums, and within the political sphere — he was invariably warm and cordial. His gracious demeanour and attentive ear promoted genuine dialogue and strengthened the spirit of cooperation essential to effective public service. Beyond his cultural and parliamentary contributions, Senator Teemal applied his expertise as a civil and structural engineer to projects that bolstered critical infrastructure and public utilities, underscoring his dedication to national development and the welfare of our citizens. His passing is a tremendous loss to the Indo-Trinidadian cultural community and the nation as a whole. Yet his work — profoundly patriotic and grounded in public service — will endure, inspiring present and future generations to honour their heritage and serve Trinidad and Tobago with the same devotion. May his soul journey peacefully into the cosmic embrace of the Divine, liberated from worldly toil and crowned with the blessings of a life well lived. May his family find solace in the high esteem in which he was held, and may his legacy remain a guiding light for all who labour for cultural preservation and national progress. Om Sadgati.
PNM Senator Dr Amery Browne: A massive loss to Trinidad and Tobago. I was saddened to receive the news early this morning of the untimely death of Independent Senator Deoroop Teemal. I will remember him as an absolute patriot and a gentleman of service…always positive, constructive, sincere, and well-researched. Never one to raise his voice, or express anger or disrespect, he was a true reflection of the very best of Trinidad and Tobago. He was a leading voice for the advancement of Indian cultural expression, and yet was unrelenting in his appreciation of all aspects of our diverse nation. Unique, one of a kind, an exemplar, a good friend, a giant heart, an outstanding family man, a success in everything he applied his talents and energies toward, and a cool, calm, resolute and outstanding voice of reason for many years in our Senate and society. Thank you to his dear wife and family for sharing him with the rest of us, and with the nation. May those of us who miss him greatly always find ways to honor his contributions and great legacy.
Former Mayaro MP Rushton Paray: I am deeply saddened by the passing of Senator Deoroop Teemal, a distinguished leader and committed servant of Trinidad and Tobago. I had the privilege of knowing Senator Teemal for over a decade, during which we worked closely together on the Joint Select Committee on Land and Physical Infrastructure. As Chairman, he demonstrated exceptional wisdom, fairness, and foresight, while I served as Vice Chairman. His deliberations were consistently informed, balanced, and rooted in a clear vision for national development. Senator Teemal’s contribution extended far beyond the committee room. His leadership in cultural preservation, community development, and public service reflected his lifelong dedication to building a stronger, more unified Trinidad and Tobago. He approached every responsibility with dignity and unwavering commitment to the people of our nation. His passing is a significant loss to our country. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with him. Senator Teemal’s legacy of integrity and service will continue to inspire us for generations to come.
National Council of Indian Culture: We regret to inform the public of the passing of Senator Deoroop Teemal, President of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), who died early this morning. Senator Teemal was a dedicated leader and a passionate advocate for cultural preservation and community development. His commitment and service have left a lasting impact on our nation. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. Further details regarding funeral arrangements and opportunities to pay tribute will be shared in due course. May his legacy continue to inspire us all. Raam Naam Satya Hai
SEWA TT: It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Senator the Honourable Deoroop Teemal, who departed this life peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Sunday, 3rd August 2025. Senator Teemal was a quiet yet unwavering force behind many of Sewa TT’s initiatives. As a valued member of our Board of Advisors, he offered thoughtful guidance and steadfast support, always putting the needs of the community above himself. His generosity in making the NCIC compound available for countless humanitarian efforts — including blood drives, emergency food distribution, and the historic establishment of Trinidad and Tobago’s first mass vaccination site during the pandemic — was a testament to his servant leadership. In his role as an Independent Senator, he carried himself with duty, patriotism, and integrity, leaving a lasting impact on the Senate and the nation. While we grieve this great loss, we are comforted by his example and inspired to carry forward his legacy. In his own quiet way, he reminded us: “Together, we serve better.” May we honour his memory through continued service.
Finance Minister Dave Tancoo: I extend sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Senator Deoroop Teemal. My first encounter with Senator Teemal occurred during my time as a UWI student in the late 1980s, when he hired me and several other students to conduct surveys for the Trinidad Guardian. My initial impression of him was that he exuded professionalism while also being genuinely personable and likable. Throughout the following decades, we frequently crossed paths at various religious and cultural events, where his passion for Indian culture and dedication to his faith consistently shone through. His presence at these gatherings was not merely as an attendee but as a leader who inspired others to engage in the celebration of our rich heritage. Beyond his commitment to cultural advocacy, Senator Teemal was recognised for his compassionate and fair approach to law-making. His colleagues in the Upper House often praised his ability to listen attentively and consider diverse perspectives, ensuring that decisions were made with integrity and wisdom. His legacy in the Senate will always be characterised by a steadfast commitment to justice, reflecting his deep belief in serving the greater good, in alignment with his Dharma. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the profound faith that he held so dear. Om Sadgati.
