The Guyana International Conference Centre, Lilendaal, East Coast Demerara will come alive on Saturday March 16 when the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha hosts its spectacular annual Phagwah Mela & Bazaar and  Folk Dance Festival. Gates open at 4pm.

The Sabha said it is very happy with the great interest expressed by dance groups from across Guyana and looks forward to some electrifying performances from groups coming from as far as Essequibo, Corentyne, West Berbice and West Demerara. All of the dancers have been working hard on their performances and are excited to be part of the folk dance festival. Keen competition is expected for the top spots. At last year’s inaugural festival, the first and second places were won by groups from Essequibo while the Nrityanjali Dance Group from West Demerara placed third.
The first prize is $50,000 plus a trophy, second $40,000 plus trophy, third $30,000 plus trophy. Other participating groups will receive cash awards and trophies. The Sabha wishes to thank GBTI and Digicel for their generous contributions toward the hosting of the Competition.
In addition to the Folk Dance Festival, the Sabha’s own Dharmic Nritya Sangh has been working assiduously on several new choreographies which they will present specially for the event. Backed by the popular Caribbean Hostshots band, singers Rekha Singh, Sookrane Bookdhoo, Mona, Suchitra Rampersaud, Chevalia Rampersaud and others will add to what promises to be a truly entertaining evening for the entire family.
The grounds of the Conference Centre will be transformed and patrons can move freely from the beautifully decorated stage area to the Bazaar featuring numerous food stalls offering a variety of sumptuous dishes and sweets, mehndi booths, games for all as well as great shopping deals on everything from Indian clothes and jewellery to phagwah supplies to phones from Digicel.
Strictly no alcohol will be allowed. Tickets cost $500 with children under 10 being given free admission. Paid parking will be available within the compound of the Conference Centre. Patrons can also choose to park outside. The Sabha wishes to thank Digicel, GBTI, NTN, TVG, Rent-a-Tent, Shaline’s Flower Shop, Geddes Grant and Pepsi for their kind contributions towards the event. Tickets are available at Red Mango – Robb Street, Bhagwan’s – Water Street, Harinarine & Sons – Regent Street and the Dharmic Sanskritik Kendra – Prashad Nagar or call 219-1900.
(GUYANA HINDU DHARMIC SABHA RELEASE)