Life and Lessons of Balliram Maharaj, From Tomato Boy To Business Magnate

This story of Balliram Bally Maharaj looks at the rise of a family from the challenges of Indentured Labour in Trinidad and Tobago. The journey from his birth to his 80^th year explores the ways that each succeeding generation builds upon what was bequeathed. With efforts begun by grandparents from India and expanded by his parents, Balliram entered the narrative in a small parlour in Arima, Trinidad, and transformed this micro family business into a group of eighteen holdings now known as The Maharaj Group of Companies.

Along this path of business achievements, Bally was keenly aware of, and deeply devoted to community work. This desire to serve and make a difference extended from his social, cultural and financial involvements in his beloved hometown of Arima in which he has lived all his life, to his country Trinidad and Tobago and to the world. It was these facets of his personality that climaxed in his receipt of the National Award of the Chaconia Gold Medal presented by The President, Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes on behalf of the Government and Peoples of Trinidad and Tobago. This grand occasion was celebrated at the National Academy of the Performing Arts, Port of Spain, on the evening of Republic Day in September, 2022.

Throughout this book, the ideas of an industrious and selfless man are personified in Balliram Maharaj. His benevolence extended not only to the underprivileged but to ventures and personalities in sports and culture. Also exemplary is his ability to assertively create solutions to address adversities he encounters, and to offer advice and lessons to others faced with similar experiences.

At 80 years old and still living a full, rich life, Balliram Bally Maharaj is indeed a phenomenon!