The Indian Arrival Com-   mittee (IAC) will host three grand melas to mark the upcoming 172nd anniversary of Indians Arrival in Guyana.

IAC Executive Member Neaz Subhan told a press briefing the three main Melas to be held are scheduled for April 25 at the National Park, May 2 at Anna Regina, and May 5 at Port Mourant.  He noted that this will be the first year that the Mela will be held at Port Mourant, which is due to the unavailability of the Blairmont Ground.

Subhan added that Guyanese dance, singing, poetry, and tassa drumming, would be featured among other cultural programmes. Plans are being finalised to have artistes from Trinidad and Suriname perform at the shows. In keeping with tradition, Subhan said that no alcohol or gambling will be allowed at the venues.

Executive Member Raymond Azeez said that the events do cost alot and the IAC is thankful for the major support received from GT&T, Banks DIH and DDL. He also thanked everyone else who had contributed to the event in their own way.  He said due to the support received it was possible to keep the admission fee small. However, he appealed for support from other entities or persons wanting to play their part in the successful hosting of the event.

One of the major aspects of the shows will be the tassa drumming competition, for which a monetary first prize awaits the winner. Executive Member Aditya Persaud said to date about seven groups have registered to be part of the competition. However, he urged other interested groups to make contact with the committee to register. Persaud said that the inclusion of tassa drumming is sure to make the event a fun experience and sees it as a boost to the entertainment provided. He added that there will be live music with a distinct Caribbean, Indian and Guyanese flavour to enrich the experience of the attendees.

Subhan took the opportunity to inform that the IAC plans to launch an Indian Museum shortly to showcase all attributes of Indian culture. However, he appealed to anyone who has a property which could accommodate the museum within Georgetown or its immediate environs, to contact the IAC so that they could enter into negotiations. Persons wishing to make contact with committee members can do so on the following numbers: Neaz Subhan – 624-5002; Aditya Persaud- 625-6903; Raymond Azeez – 628-7500 and Priya Mahase – 647-7575.

Meanwhile, the committee also expressed their concern about the recent increase in of molestation of young girls and the death of Sangeeta Persaud.  A call was made for the authorities to conduct through investigations so that the perpetrators could be brought to justice.