– memoir celebrates Cricket, Unity, and Legacy
Legendary West Indies and Guyanese cricketer Alvin Kallicharan launched his new memoir, Colour Blind: My Life Journey, at a heartfelt event at the Oasis Lounge, located in the historic old Pegasus Hotel wing in Kingston.
The 75-year-old former batsman reflected on his incredible journey from rural Guyana to cricket stardom, blending insights into his life in the game with reflections on race, unity, and giving back to the next generation.
The book captures Kallicharran’s early years, inspired by mentors like Basil Butcher, who gave him his first bat, and Lance Gibbs, whom he considers a lifelong mentor. Kallicharan also recalled how cricketing legends Rohan Kanhai and Gary Sobers shaped his career and his outlook, with each figure coming from diverse backgrounds. “We’re all different colours,” he said, “but we are bound by cricket and friendship.”
Kallicharran’s time in England – where he competed, thrived, and earned respect across racial boundaries – is also a central theme in Colour Blind. Reflecting on how cricket helped bridge divides, he said, “How could I turn back and call it prejudice when the game brought us together as one people?”
The book launch marked a new chapter for Kallicharan, who continues to serve the cricket community through the Kallicharan Foundation. The event also unveiled the Foundation’s latest initiatives aimed at supporting young cricketers and promoting unity through sports. The head table at the launch featured Reverend Lawrence Wright, Foundation Public Relations Officer Sean Devers, and Dr. Pritish Toolaram from the Ministry of Education.
Dr. Toolaram, representing Minister Priya Manickchand, extended congratulations to Kallicharan on behalf of the Ministry of Education. He announced plans to integrate Kallicharran’s memoir into educational programs, saying, “The Ministry applauds this initiative and will consider purchasing books for students in sports programs across Guyana.” Toolaram emphasised the Ministry’s vision to give every child access to at least one sport, one foreign language, and one musical instrument as part of a well-rounded education.
Kallicharan expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, emphasising his commitment to giving back to Guyana and Berbice. He acknowledged the influential roles of other West Indies legends such as Clive Lloyd, Lance Gibbs, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Roger Harper, and Shivnarine Chanderpaul in sharing his journey.
Reverend Wright also spoke at the launch, offering a spiritual perspective on Kallicharran’s career and the book’s message of unity. He also took note of how his story could inspire the next generation.
Colour Blind: My Life Journey is more than a memoir; it’s a testament to the power of sport to overcome barriers, foster unity, and inspire future generations.
