The Planning Committee for Mashramani celebrations in Region Two on Friday officially launched its programme of activities at the Anna Regina Fire Station compound. The launch was held under the theme “Cultural folklore: Celebrating 44” and featured various cultural items, including dances, poems and calypso.
The activities were declared opened by regional Mash representative Portia Jocobs.
Regional Mash Planning Committee Chairman Humane Odit thanked those who made the launch of Mash 2014 possible.
He said a number of activities have been planned, all of which will showcase the young talents in the region.
Meanwhile, Region Two Vice Chairman Vishnu Samaroo said Mashramani is an important event in Guyana, and early planning is needed to kick off the celebrations.
Some of the activities planned for the Mash celebrations next year include children’s art and essay, dramatic poetry, calypso, dance, masquerade, costume, physical display, road relay race, steel pans in the street, best decorated and illuminated buildings, folk and patriotic songs and differently-able competitions; cultural shows; and a flagraising ceremony.
Mashramani is an annual festival that celebrates Guyana becoming a republic in 1970.
The festival, usually held on February 23 – Guyana’s Republic Day – includes a parade, music, games and cooking and is intended to commemorate the birth of the republic.
The word “Mashramani” is derived from an Amerindian word and in translation means “the celebration of a job well done”.
