In brilliant sunshine, Guyanese from all walks of life turned out in their numbers to witness the traditional costume and float parade as Guyana celebrated 44 years as a republic on Sunday, but evidently, they were disappointed with the number of floats that were showcased.
The streets were packed to capacity with spectators and a large number of tourists in their colourful outfits, gyrating to sweet soca music. Some also took the opportunity to click photos of the bands as they slowly went through the streets.
At every corner, there were food and drink bars, catering for the weary revellers. Then, there were the face painters, skillfully painting the faces and bodies of spectators who were desirous of having such done while some were also busy selling toys and other eye-catching items for children of all ages.
Nevertheless, the parade kicked off after 10:30h from Church and Carmichael streets, Georgetown and traversed along the specified routes, where they were judged at strategic locations. During the parade, Trinidad soca music boomed through the speakers of elevated music systems on trucks, but as they approached the judging area, they quickly switched gears and played a few Guyanese selections.
There were some impressive floats which were created to perfection, notably Digicel “Arabian Night” designed by Olympia Small Sonaram, the Education Ministry looked fabulous in white while the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry also stood out among the rest.
The Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry’s Band was accompanied by steel pan music and live performances by the Heat waves Band.
Another float that was rocking and had an effect on the crowd was that of ANSA McAL under the Tropical Rhythm Brand. These floats were designed by Maxi Prince and were displayed by well known male and female characters, who entertained the crowd fully. The Amerindian Affairs Ministry added some steam to the parade as its beautifully decked out revellers in a combination of colours did not hold back, but rather went down to the ground, proving to the Georgetown posse that they enjoy themselves just the same.
The Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) was led by Alexi Ramotar and had a few hundred revellers who were drawn from several groups throughout the country.
More revellers, less floats
No doubt, Guyana Mashramani is becoming like Trinidad’s Carnival, and this was evident on the roads: there were less floats, but rather a barrage of revellers in skimpy outfits. This was noted in the Pulse Entertainment party trucks which attracted thousands, compliments of Deejay Ryan.
Hits and Jams Entertainment supporters also took to the streets in their numbers, creating a storm as they blared some of the best soca selections, which caused the old to get out of their seats and shake their fragile bodies. Banks DIH’s GT Beer revellers also turned out in their numbers and hit the streets in grand style, although they did not have a float.
All in all, the day undoubtedly belonged to Digicel for their uniformity and most of all; they might have had the largest contingent on the road when it comes to full costume band. As they traverse the streets, hundreds of items were distributed, which saw the young, the old, and the not so old stretching and jumping to collect. The items range from umbrellas to bandanas and cups.
This year, major companies including the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, ANSA McAL and Banks DIH which Guyanese are accustomed to see, did not participate in the mash tramp.
Guyana Times International caught up with several ministers, including Education Minister Priya Manickchand, who led her ministry. She expressed excitement to be back on the road having a grand time.
The Minister explained that her band comprised of over 300 revellers, who were all dressed in white, showcasing peace and unity in Guyana and the education system. She also posited that Guyana has come a long way in its 44 years a republic nation and she remains committed to further developing her ministry and ultimately the country in the years to come.
Human Services and Social Security Minister Jennifer Webster was also delighted as she led her band. Webster said that Mashramani is a time to celebrate and that was exactly what her revellers did. Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony was impressed with the turn out, stating that his band came out with their full complement this year and intends to emerge victorious in their category. The results of the 2014 Costume and Float Parade will be made known by the end of the week.
