Thousands expected at today’s IAC Mela in Georgetown
…following the successful hosting of IAC’s Essequibo and Berbice Melas
THE atmosphere on Sunday, May 01, at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground in Essequibo; and on Thursday, May 05, 2011, at the University of Guyana Tain Campus in Berbice can only be described as “electrifying” when the Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) held its annual Melas (Fairs) to celebrate and commemorate the 173rd anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Guyana. 2011 marks eight years since these mega events have become fixtures within the three counties of Guyana. Over the years, thousands look forward to being part of the grandeur.

The Melas provide a wonderful opportunity for all, including children, to sample the rich culture which unfolds in various formats. While it’s dominated with enthralling dances and melodious singing, small entrepreneurs use the occasion to showcase their creativity in local craft and food. Some display Indian costume and jewellery much to the delight of those in attendance. The transformation of the various venues to reflect the celebratory mood is always breathtaking.

The aromas from the food and sweetmeats, the jubilant cheers of children on the merry-go-round and the Ferris wheel, the predominance of Indian garments by patrons, the décor and the music, were all delicately interwoven to present the spectacle befitting the celebrations that have become synonymous with the achievements of the decedents of those who came 173 years ago, and that of the Guyanese people as a whole.

A statement from the IAC noted that the Shelita, Farishte, Rangella and the Abinaya Natya dance troupes wowed the audience with captivating dances which depict aspects of the culture and a reminder of Bollywood’s influence.

In Essequibo, stealing the hearts of the audience and the executives of the IAC was the petite beauty, Ambika Devi Persaud, with her dance from the movie ‘Pakeeza’. She invoked memories of the late Meena Kumari who captivated audiences around the world with the famous semi-classical dance. A graceful Ambika, who was outfitted in a similar costume worn by Meena Kumari, mesmerised all with her almost flawless foot movements.

Her performance moved the organisers to not only publicly recognise her and the talent Essequibo possesses, but to ask for an encore which she delightfully accepted. This is the first time that such a request was made of a local artiste at a Mela organised by the IAC, testimony of her immense talent.

Those attending the Georgetown Mela today at the National Park, will get the opportunity to see this talented dancer since she has agreed to journey to the Capital City to perform.

The IAC is heartened with talent such as Ambika and those who participated since it augurs well for the preservation of the heritage and culture. Also performing were top local singers, Sandela Craig, Aron Dasraj and Nishaul. They were backed by the versatile Clarity International Band. As customary, the IAC honoured outstanding Indo-Guyanese who would have contributed to the development of Guyana and the Indian Culture. The recipient at the Essequibo Mela was eighty-year-old Rookmin Ramlakhan who for many decades dedicated her life to the service of others. In Berbice, Imam Mohamed Ispahani Haniff was the awardee for his contribution in the field of Religion.

Today, the IAC will honour Latchman ‘Balgobin’ Kawall and the late Fredrick ‘Freddie’ Sancharra. According to the IAC, Kawall is known for his tremendous contributions in the field of music while Sancharra for his yeoman service in promoting various aspects of the culture, especially Indian performing arts.

The IAC expresses its appreciation to all those who contributed or assisted in making the mentioned events the success it was. Admission to the National Park Mela today is $200 while children are free. No alcohol or gambling will be allowed. The IAC said dancers from the Indian Cultural Centre will also be participating.