Mashramani 2015 was officially launched yesterday under the theme, ‘One People, One Culture, One Celebration’, conceptualised by Ariel Gittens, and crowds turned out in front of the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport on Main Street to witness the heralding of the annual event.
They were treated to performances by local artistes including reigning Soca Monarch Kwesi ‘Ace’ Edmonson and the National Steel Orchestra. The performances, most Mashramani-inspired, were lauded by local comedian Kirk ‘Chow Pow’ Jardine who encouraged locals to support their own.
“Once we keep nurturing and supporting these talents we will definitely grow in terms of culture,”
Jardine said before adding, “we as a people need to come together and realise that this is just not a hobby but a job.”
Minister of Culture Dr Frank Anthony echoed the sentiment, pointing to the unique culture Guyana possesses.
“Guyana indeed has a real diverse and unique culture,” Anthony said. He went on, “When you see it on display it is about us as Guyanese. Culture is something that indeed unifies us; something that brings us together, something that makes social cohesion work in our country.”
Anthony further said that culture allowed for the displaying of creativity with many of the talents coming from “the spring of being Guyanese.
“When you listen to our songs I think if you’re not Guyanese you’re missing the nuances that exist in these songs because there are certain things in there that it takes a Guyanese to understand … and that’s the beauty of the culture.”
He continued, “Just within this one month of February we have maybe about 100 to 120 songs being created for Mashramani and that shows that we have this wonderful creativity within us.”
According to Anthony, Mashramani will feature its usual items such as steel bands, parades, and competitions. Guyanese will also be privy to more academic events such as exhibitions at the National Museum and Castellani House along with a lecture series called “The Republic of Guyana” which focuses on all aspects of Guyanese culture.
Anthony indicated that he is also hoping for the participation of 45 bands on the road for Mashramani 2015 and encouraged designers to introduce more diversity into their pieces.
He further encouraged businesses to come on board and support the Mashramani Committee. “The ministry and the organising committee cannot do it alone. We need the various companies – the various regions – we need hundreds of persons to collaborate so that we can have a successful event,” he said. He also pointed out that Mashramani presented the perfect opportunity for companies to advertise themselves, not just locally but internationally.
According to the minister, works are already underway for the planning of events.
Mashramani is celebrated in February every year as part of Guyana’s republic anniversary commemoration. Next year will mark the country’s 45th year as a republic.
