THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha is vehemently opposed to child and alcohol abuse and has already set up groups in some areas to execute its programme.  Emerging Voices was preceded by auditions which provide an opportunity for the best young vocalists in the country to be chosen.  Their presentations and skills together with modulation demonstrated unbelievable melodies which they competently executed in the ragas rendered.  The event, first of its kind, was hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha at the National Convention Centre, Liliendaal on Saturday 10th April 2010.

The Sabha’s decision to construct a home for abused children came in spontaneously for government’s support as President Bharrat Jagdeo said his government will provide the building and land and will commit funds for staff. He called on all Guyanese to support the programme. The vision of the Sabha is commendable, these matters are complex declared President Jagdeo who went on to say it did not deter the Sabha from proceeding,

President Jagdeo drew attention to the fact that in his Party’s manifesto it stated that the government would strengthen legislative environment to protect children and create a Child Care Protection Agency.  He further said that the agency which is currently being staffed will be complemented with a strong legislative framework inclusive of the current bills in parliament.  The president declared that the problems of enforcement will be removed.  He was particularly moved by the fact that these matters are addressed by religious bodies.  They are undoubtedly the right people to service the project.  However, the Guyanese community and religious bodies will have to play greater roles in effecting cultural changes. Let us therefore fight abuse and demonstrate total intolerance for abuse.

The concert was innovative in many ways beginning from the very presentation to the actual performances.  The renditions brought out the skills of the young people and were definitely modulated in fine ragas.  To say the least they captured the audience and held them spellbound throughout the evening.  It must be mentioned that the artistes came basically from the rural areas of the country. It must also be stated that most of the youthful singers are products of Kala Utsav.

This project is the vision of Dr. Vindhya Persaud who spent lengthy hours with the young people training them for the fine presentation which will be forever remembered.
Dr. Persaud in brief remarks urged the young people to courageously speak out against all forms of abuse.

Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud at the end of the concert in a brief comment declared that the presentation was profoundly impressive, it is the first time after years of being involved in cultural activities that I have witnessed visible changes which unfolded vocal items in a manner that has not only thrilled us but inspired all of us to recognized the dynamism of our culture.  He could not escape saying, ‘Vindi worked exceptionally hard and the success of this event is due to her sole vision and dream.”