Heritage & monuments
Baba and Mai
Baba and Mai
This aluminum sculpture in Paramaribo commemorates the first immigrant couple from India to Suriname in 1873. The monument depicts the figures carrying a simple bundle, representing the start of their new life in the country. Visitors go here to learn about the historical Indian migration and the cultural heritage of the Surinamese people.
Getting There
The monument is located within the city center. From the central district, it is a short walk of approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
Visit Duration
As this is a public outdoor sculpture, most visitors spend about 15 to 30 minutes at the site.
When to Visit
The sculpture is accessible throughout the day. To avoid the midday heat and intense tropical sun, early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended. It does not typically experience heavy crowds, though the surrounding city center is busier during business hours.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, the monument can be easily combined with other nearby sites on foot:
- Garden of Palms (0.2km)
- Surinaams Museum (0.2km)
- Centrum (0.3km)
- Independence Plaza (0.3km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors