–satisfied with the availability of ‘options’ for a fun-filled day

IN a scenic display of colourful kites in all shapes and sizes upon the blue sunny sky, a noticeable buzz of excitement filled the atmosphere as a diverse range of Guyanese flocked to various recreational facilities across Guyana to celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ and spend time with their family and friends.

Reflecting on the past when there would usually be various “hot spots” like the Kingston Seawall, the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown for picnics and beaches across the country, 53-year-old Theresa Ignatius told the Guyana Chronicle there are now many options due to the development of the many play parks and safe spaces for families.

“Listen, for years, me and my family used to make sure we went to the gardens and the seawall very early to make sure we got a space to relax for the day, but now we have many options, and families have many other options, thanks to President Ali and his government.

“Today we packed our food and loaded up the vehicle, and I let the children and grands know if we couldn’t find a space at the gardens or the seawall, we were going to the Industry Seawall or by the Boulevard in Albouystown. I really love that we have choices, and this is what I am seeing all over Guyana,” Ms. Ignatius said.

While wishing the President and all of Guyana a Happy Easter, Ms. Ignatius said: “I travelled and spent time overseas before, but I can tell you, we as Guyanese might have differences, but there is no place else in the world where you can see Muslims, Hindus, and Christians come together and celebrate like Guyana.

“We don’t look at hair and colour to eat and drink from, and we definitely have a President that celebrates and enjoys with all of us. So, I want to wish all Guyanese, including our President and his government, a happy Easter, and I hope that we can live every day as we do on these holidays, with togetherness.”

Also speaking with the Guyana Chronicle was Jay Nandkishun, an overseas based Guyanese who recently spent his Christmas holiday in the country and came back for the Phagwah and Easter festivals.

According to him: “Even though I am living overseas, I always wanted to come back home during these holidays and, in a sense, relive my childhood days. The good old days of just having a good time with family, friends, neighbours, and just the villagers in general.

I cannot tell you when last I spent a holiday in Guyana, but seeing the development of your country, the growth of the economy, and how far we have come as a nation and a people, the excitement of coming home is one that I looked forward to when I came for Christmas, and that experience caused me to plan this trip for Phagwah and Easter.

“It is nice to see that we can get back to our roots and genuinely enjoy the way we are, put aside our differences, and just engage, interact, and be safe amongst ourselves. It is times like these that we truly see that Guyana is a melting pot of diverse cultures, and for sure that we are one people, in One Guyana.”

Finally, Mr. Nandkishun extended his gratitude to President Ali and his government for “creating an environment that is safe, secure, and fun for all to enjoy.”

He said: “The level of security that I’ve seen all around Georgetown, and along the coast, says a lot about the interest that is being paid to the people and their welfare, and I hope that we can all stay safe, look out for each other long after the season is over, and let us live in love and unity.”

Meanwhile, in his Easter message to Guyanese, President Ali said in part, “I am pleased to extend Easter greetings to all Guyanese, but especially to our Christian community, for whom this is the most joyous season in their liturgical calendar.
“Easter is central to the Christian faith.

The story of Easter celebrates Christ’s Resurrection, heralding a time of profound significance for the Christian community. Easter resonates with the promise of redemption and the triumph of love over sin and death.”

He continued, “The extended Easter weekend in Guyana is punctuated by activities reflecting our traditions. Families gather in open spaces, parks, and beaches for kite-flying, picnics, and other outdoor fun activities. The Bartica Regatta, held annually during Easter weekend, is a spectacular showcase of boat races, water sports, and cultural performances.

The Rupununi Rodeo, in the heart of Guyana’s hinterland, is a thrilling display of horsemanship, cattle wrangling, and traditional indigenous festivities, attracting visitors from near and far.

“As you partake in the festivities let us be ever mindful of the profound lessons inherent in the Easter Story—lessons of self-sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and reconciliation—and let them guide our interactions with one another. May this Easter be a time of reflection and renewal as we draw inspiration from the enduring message of love and redemption heralded by the Resurrection! A joyous and blessed Easter to all! Happy Easter!”