Rastafari in Trinidad: Haile Selassie I Coronation Celebrations

By Joshua Seemungal | ROOTT

Drums, meditations and stories of faith in Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago. ROOTT visits the Siparia Nyabinghi Tabernacle for the 96th anniversary of Haile Selassie I’s coronation as Emperor of Ethiopia.

Rastafari history and Haile Selassie I’s legacy

The feature brings together perspectives on Rastafari faith, African identity and the legacy of Haile Selassie I. Through the personal stories of community members, it explores how history and spiritual traditions continue to shape Caribbean life.

Inside the Siparia Nyabinghi celebration

Voices from the Siparia community sit alongside drumming and meditations, giving viewers an opportunity to hear how participants understand their faith and its place in Trinidad and Tobago. Watch the full documentary above for their accounts in their own words.

This is part of ROOTT’s independent coverage of Caribbean history, culture and identity. Explore more ROOTT features and documentaries, or suggest a community story.