MASHRAMANI celebrations commemorate the birth of our Republic, 41 years old today, and despite the shadows cast – literally and figuratively- on the festivities, the show will go on today – and the excitement in all the Mash camps, and in the general public is reflective of the anticipation for the day’s festivities.
Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, at a press briefing, yesterday said as much when he disclosed that the stakeholders, engaged to discuss the postponement of the celebrations, were “persuasive” in their push for the show to go on today.
Guyanese have braved the adverse weather conditions before and will do so again, because they refuse to allow any constraints to their fervor for their primary national celebrations.
Also, the mood in many of the Mash Camps is very upbeat.
Mashramani celebrations feature flag-raising ceremonies, among many other events, with today’s grand display of colours and creativity when the many bands take to the streets.
The spirit linked to Mashramani, despite the sometimes, distressing to some citizens, level of crudity during the Parade, is one that has truly made the celebrations Guyana’s own.
The word Mashramani is derived from the Arawak language, which translated means ‘the celebration of a job well done’.
This special celebration brings together people from all walks of life – a feat deserving of great celebration indeed.
The legacy of our Amerindians is celebrated with the word Mashramani; the masquerades that frequent the streets remind us of Guyana’s African heritage; the different competitions celebrate the talents and potential of the various cultures of the Guyanese people; and the grand Parade showcases the national culture of our people, blended in a unique tapestry that highlights our diverse culture.
The show must go on, not only because all the concerns of stakeholders are balanced (despite the weather), but because Mashramani is integral to the identity of the Guyanese people.
The journey that Guyana has travelled in 41 years as a Republic is celebrated with Mashramani.
Conscious Guyanese are reminded of what was and what is; because despite a few bumps in the road, the country continues to move forward.
On this day of celebration, the Board of Directors, management and staff of GNNL and the Chronicle bid all fellow Guyanese a happy Republic Day and a joyous Mashramani.