PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar caught a panoramic view of the Mashramani costume and float parade from the National Park yesterday. He arrived in time to witness the performance by the Torch, a masquerade band from Region 10.
In view of an arena packed to capacity and a judging audience, costume bands entered one after the other from the eastern side and made two laps around the park under the guidance of the Mashramani coordinating team.
In an invited comment, President Ramotar said, “I enjoyed myself thoroughly today. I enjoyed many of the floats that they had and it’s good to see so many people enjoying themselves,” President Ramotar said.
President Ramotar was impressed with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment’s float, noting that it was well-conceptualised.
There were sporadic showers but these failed to impede the revellers from their energetic performances.
The Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce, under the theme “Celebrating and Savouring our Cultural Traditions” had the crowd on its feet with an energetic costume depicting the Kaieteur, resplendent flora and rich traditions.
With revellers decked in red, yellow and white, the Ministry of Health continued to promote its campaign for healthy living. “Love that Body, – love life, stay healthy, live long” was the ministry’s theme.
Minister of Agriculture Dr. Leslie Ramsammy took the lead as his ministry participated under the theme “Celebrating our Rich Diversity” and promoting the message about Guyana being the breadbasket of the Caribbean.
“Oral Tradition” was the theme for the Ministry of Education’s costume band, and popular proverbs such as “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush” were used as the Ministry advocated literacy.
With soundtracks from local artistes dominating the musical accompaniment and costume bands symbolising all aspects of the Guyanese tradition, it can be argued that this year’s celebration confirmed to its colloquial theme Mashin with Pride Keepin We Traditions Alive.”
The Region Five contingent participating under the theme “The Sounds of Music,” was one of several bands setting the example.
Revellers re-enacted the arrival of the East Indian indentured labourers and the musical aspects of the culture they brought.
Minister of Public Service, Dr. Jennifer Westford was behind her Ministry’s concept, “El Dorado, the City of Gold”. Her band depicted the arrival of the Europeans here, the indigenous people, and Guyana’s mineral wealth.
A contingent from Region 10 proudly showcased bauxite, timber and other aspects of mining.