ESSEQUIBO’S young talents made a remarkable impression at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s Kala Utsav 2025, held Sunday last at the Dharmic Sanskritik Kendra in Prashad Nagar.
More than 50 enthusiastic youths proudly represented the Essequibo Coast Praant, bringing grace, confidence, and cultural pride to the national stage.
This year’s competition featured a rich blend of traditional performances, devotional music, and artistic expression. The Essequibo contingent excelled in multiple areas, securing top accolades and demonstrating their dedication to preserving and uplifting Hindu art forms.
Their achievements included Ramayan Chanting – 3rd Prize, Classical Dance – 1st Prize, Folk Dance – 1st Prize and Participants Prize Female Singing, Male Singing,Kirtan and Instrumental Music.
President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, praised the regional participants for their effort and commitment.
She emphasised the importance of youth involvement in cultural heritage, noting that Kala Utsav continues to serve as a stepping-stone for emerging talent.
“Kala Utsav has been the platform for many of Guyana’s outstanding singers we are celebrating youthful talent in the arts,” Dr. Persaud said.
TRAINING AND PREPARATION IN ESSEQUIBO
The Essequibo Coast Praant Dharmic Naujawan invested weeks of preparation to ensure a strong presence at this year’s Kala Utsav.
Participants trained at mandirs and community halls across the region, guided by experienced teachers, cultural instructors, and volunteers dedicated to Sanatan Dharma and performing arts.
Youth coordinators emphasised discipline, pronunciation, stage etiquette, and devotion — qualities essential to excelling in chanting, singing, dance, and instrumental categories. Parents also played a major role, ensuring consistent practice, and moral support.
Ravindra Deowattie, director and choreographer of the dances said he spend alot of hours with the dancers ensuring that they master their movements. He said that Essequibo always capture the moments for the Folk Dance.
One performer Bomeka Singh expressed that the training itself was a rewarding experience, helping them build confidence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for Hindu culture.
High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. Amit Telang, congratulated all participants and commended the Sabha for sustaining a platform that connects younger generations to their ancestral roots.
He noted that such cultural expressions strengthen ties between India and Guyana and emphasized the importance of continued investment in youth development through the arts.
The Essequibo Coast Praant has consistently shown exceptional dedication to cultural advancement, organizing training sessions, encouraging parental involvement, and ensuring youths receive exposure at national events.
The strong showing at Kala Utsav 2025 reflects the teamwork of tutors, organizers, parents, and the participants themselves, who continue to devote their time to practicing, performing, and preserving the rich heritage of Sanatan Dharma.
Many young performers expressed joy, pride, and a sense of achievement following the announcement of results.
Ushanna Takram , who was part of the winning Folk Dance group, said, “We practiced every day after school, but we wanted to make Essequibo proud. When they called our name for first prize, I felt happy because all our work paid off. I can’t wait to be back next year.”
Her words captured the spirit of the event — dedication, enthusiasm, and a drive to keep improving.
Kala Utsav 2025 not only highlighted talent, but also reaffirmed the role of culture in shaping discipline, confidence, and leadership among young people. For Essequibo’s participants, this year’s achievements stand as motivation to aim even higher in the coming years, as they continue to shine both on and off the stage.
