Dear Editor
ESSEQUIBIANS celebrated Mashramani in grand style as the revellers captivated the imagination of everyone who witnessed quite a memorable and colourful display. In fact, there was a massive turn out of on-lookers who crowded the roadside from Three-Friends to the Anna Regina Car Park, which was the official route for the parade. I was indeed amazed by the excitement, camaraderie, charm and confidence which were exuded from every reveller as they gyrated to the rhythmic and pulsating beat of the diverse genre of the captivating sounds emanating from the music boxes.

Fittingly, there was perfect weather for the momentous occasion which set the tone for Essequibians to celebrate their 48th Republic Anniversary as a united community, despite its diversity. Every race was present as was depicted by the winning costume in the large category, ‘A&C Boutique and Beauty Parlour’ from the village of Henrietta. The band had in excess of 80 revellers depicting the colours of the national flag along with their costumes, which represented the vast natural resources of our country. They were also seemingly natural and even professional dancers in their midst as they stirringly performed to every lyric, whether it was chutney, soca or dance hall genres.

While their band stood out, there were other interesting costumes as well, including the Dynamic Revellers from the Department of Education which came in second, as well as the Essequibo Technical Institute, which also had a lively and vibrant movement made up of primarily students attending the institution. Interestingly, the Guyana Police Force Youth Group, along with the Very Important Social Group of Queenstown, was participating for the first time and they made quite a favourable impression with unique displays and the exuberance of youthfulness.

Nothing could have been more pleasing than to witness a united front as every man, woman and child stood, danced, cheered and shared the moment in nostalgia. I estimated that there were in excess of 3,000 Essequibians who stood proudly in pronouncing and celebrating this national event in a manner that speaks volume of our nationalism, patriotism and enhancing our embodiment of uniting as a people in the quest for common solidarity in every sphere of livelihood.

The regional administration through the Mash Committee worked tirelessly in promoting such ideals and indeed it was greatly manifested. I was certainly moved by the riveting dynamism that was on display, even as I ponder the revelation that our space is being challenged by Venezuela as being their territory. Witnessing mash in Essequibo however has strengthened my resolve and so are all Essequibians who have shown that there is strength in being united, as they so admirably did together.

Regards
Elroy Stephney