By Bhisham Mohamed –
Thousands of Guyanese took to the streets on Saturday to rejoice in celebration of Mashramani 2013 under the theme “Reflecting creativity; embracing diversity”.
The theme was indeed portrayed as Guyanese from all walks of life turned up to witness some of the most breathtaking floats that were on display. The floats were accompanied by well decorated revellers as they vied for top spots in the competition aspect.
As usual, most of the floats left their various Mash camps, passing through Camp and Church streets into Irving Street and into Thomas Lands before culminating at the National Park, where they were judged in various categories.
There were some impressive designs, notably Digicel’s “Call of the wild”; ANSA McAL’s “Tribe” and PULSE Entertainment as usual with “THE ULTIMATE” Mash experience.
The Pulse trucks were accompanied by revellers who did not hesitate as they gyrated to Trinidadian Soca King Shal Marshall, while Carib saw the likes of Bunji Garlin; Fay Ann Lyons and the Asylum Band.
The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company’s contingent was accompanied by ‘X2’ (times two) singers, Adrian Dutchin and Jumo Primo; they both added their talent in creating the right carnival-like atmosphere. The blue and white effect also caught the attention of the thousands who lined the streets.
Both, Primo and Dutchin steamed up the revellers as well as the ‘partyholics’ who screamed and waved as the floats made their way into the National Park.
Digicel Guyana contracted Anthony Abrams to perform on their band. He dished out tunes such from popular soca artistes and definitely had, not only the revellers ‘getting on bad’, but also the persons who flocked the parade route.
Ravi B and the Karma Band out of Trinidad and Tobago was also a part of the Digicel contingent. He had the crowd going berserk as he belched out his most soca tune “Prescription”. His band members also had it going when they released the soca spirit. Banks DIH Limited did not take it lightly, hitting the roads with more than 250 well-costumed revellers and a huge ship that was referred to as “The new frontier”. As the revellers tramped through the streets; the cool banks beers were flowing.
This year, it was creativity to the highest, creating a kaleidoscope that featuredthe works of several prominent designers, including Olympia Small-Sonaram, Neilson Nurse and Paul Burnette.
This year, was one of the biggest ever with over 30 floats vying for the top spot in their respective categories.
Apart from the commercial category, the various government ministries also took to the streets with their subject ministers leading the way. The floats by the ministries depicted what each ministry does, but were done in the most creative way.
Another float that caught the eyes of spectators was that of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission. It was well decorated and showcased Guyana’s rich interior locations.
