GUYANA’s First Family –- His Excellency President Donald Ramotar, First Lady Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar, and members of their family — hosted a Phagwah Samelan last evening at State House, transforming the residence with melodious chanting of chowtaal, and colourful dances depicting Phagwah.The Samelan at State House was held ahead of the Hindu festival of Holi, which will be observed on March 6.

The First Couple mingled freely with persons who gathered to enjoy the festivities, and Guyana’s Head of State said he was delighted to be part of such an auspicious occasion. “It a great pleasure to be here to celebrate with you, because I’m sure that all of you know that this celebration has many meanings; it’s a celebration of good over evil; the beginning of a new page; the turning of a new leaf.”

The President explained that the Hindu Festival of Holi is a very important holiday in the Hindu calendar, and is an equally important holiday in the national calendar of our country. He noted that because of our country’s diversity, these festivals have now become more nationalistic, with our people integrating as one.

The President deemed Guyana “a country that is rich in tradition and a country in which we are trying to integrate all the cultures of the different strands that are existing in our society, so that we can emerge with one strong Guyanese culture.”

The Head of State explained that all these festivals have great lessons that we can follow and live by. (They) will guide our lives and help in fostering people morality within our society.

President Ramotar thanked all who made a special effort to attend the event. “It gives me great pleasure to have you all here at my home as we display a small part of this beautiful culture and tradition. I thank you very much on behalf of my family for coming and sharing in the festivities of Phagwah.”

With cultural Phagwah renditions, dances done by the Jewan Ka Nritya Dance group and the Nachgana Academy of Dance, the chowtaal groups were able to bring the festival of Holi to each and every person gathered. Persons were also treated to ‘seven curry’ for dinner as well as traditional sweetmeats.

The event was attended by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Ministers of Government, and members of the Diplomatic Corps.