THERE is hardly a state anywhere that does not have what can be described
as a national revelry of some kind that represents the sum total of its history/cultural traditions and cohesiveness.
Virtually every nation celebrates its national life every year. For example, Trinidad has its carnival, which is the most significant event on the island’s cultural and tourism calendar; Barbados, its Kadooment or Crop Over festival that celebrates the ending of the local sugar cane harvest; Brazil, the gigantic Rio Carival; Canada, its Caribana, depicting the pot pourri of its Caribbean presence and cultural traditions; and the United Kingdom, the Notting Hill Carnival, billed as Europe’s biggest street party.
Since 1970, beginning in the month of February, Guyana observes its Republic anniversary, by holding dozens of activities under the concept of Mashramani, which usually culminate on Republic Day, February 23, with a grand display of costume bands, supported by Caribbean originated music, watched by thousands of spectators who either line the routes along where the revellers will pass, or occupy the grass verges with their families and friends to picnic, while they enjoy the festivities of the day.
Anyone recalling the early stirrings of this national occasion will remember Mashramani’s humble beginnings in Linden, before its eventual transport to the city. In those early times, this celebration was largely confined to the capital, with just a few scattered events in some regions. But fast forward, 40 years after, this event has evolved into a truly, national cultural jump-up, with all the regions now integrally involved, with the grand finale in the form of the colourful costume bands parade.
The just concluded Mashramani celebrations were another huge success, that reflected comprehensive and willing participation by mainstream Guyanese. Spearheaded by a much better organised Mash Secretariat, inclusive of a planning committee, the programme of performances reflected much thought and creativity that pointed towards a people who have finally begun to understand the meaning of unity and togetherness for a better, peaceful and prosperous Guyana.
In this regard, one must congratulate the PPP/C Government for its ready and unstinting support, national leadership, and critical financial input in elevating the level of this important cultural celebration from an almost parochial one, to that which is truly all encompassing of the nation’s diverse cultures. All the races now have segments in this national extravaganza, thus representing the rich Guyanese tapestry. What is indeed heartening is that each region has been executing its particular events, showcasing much of its peculiar local customs.
It is also heartening to observe the continued support from corporate Guyana. Their sponsorship of the many events was significant as the nation celebrated another successful Mashramani.
Mash 2013, apart from being a successful celebration, signals a nation and its people striving for a better Guyana.
