The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport says 18 contestants are vying for the Chutney Monarch 2011 crown in the finals of the National Mashramani Chutney Competition set for Saturday.
In a press release the ministry said reigning monarch Fiona Singh and former winners Haresh Singh and Rajesh Dubraj are among the finalists. Mahendra Ramkellawan who placed second last year will also be vying for the coveted crown.
According to the release, soca sensation Adrian Dutchin will also be competing in this year’s contest for the first time along with other newcomers: Kawalpatti Couchman, Joel Pharous, Johnny Samaroo, Britney Rajcoomar, Andrew Busjith and Mona Ramsewl.
Popular chutney artists Pooran Seeraj, Kamla Rampersaud and Bunty Singh will also be contesting for this year’s title, along with Dennis Tatpaul, Beesham Jairam, Amir Khan and Savetri Li. Both Jairam and Bunty Singh won the Most Promising Artistes prize in the past and are hopeful about their chances this year.
The release also said the contestants will be backed by the Shakti Strings Orchestra.
