THOUSANDS of Guyanese, many decked in colourful and traditional Indian garments, gathered at the Vreed-en-Hoop Ferry Stelling, West Bank Demerara yesterday afternoon to participate in a grand and culturally rich programme in observance of the 166th anniversary of the arrival of East Indians to the shores of Guyana.
The programme for the traditional event (that is normally held at Joe Vieira Park, West Bank Demerara, had to be shifted to the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling due to the inclement weather). It was organized by the Indian Religious, Cultural and Social Organization (IRCSO) and included some electrifying performances by several local singers and dancers.
The 2004 Indian Immigration Rani Pageant was a success, although crowd support for the 10 contestants was sadly lacking.
Ms. Poonam Mohan of Canal Number One Polder, West Bank Demerara, was crowned the 2004 Rani Queen, and rightfully so, given her tremendous performance on stage.
The highlight of the event, and many would agree, were the scintillating performances by some young children, especially from the Best Village Mandir.
Many observers felt this was the best performance in many years at such events.
President Bharrat Jagdeo, in his remarks at the function, noted that since their arrival from India 166 years ago, Indians have contributed significantly to the prosperity of this country.
Last year, and the previous year, at similar functions, the President endorsed the timely message of 'Jihaji' or brotherhood in his repeated calls for unity.
And in the true spirit of 'Jihaji', the thousands, like they did at the grand International Mela at the National Park on Sunday, which was organized by the Indian Arrival Committee, braved the constant threat from the inclement weather to attend the gala function yesterday, which began just after noon and ended late in the evening.
The event was definitely a success and organizers thanked persons for coming out in such large numbers and participating in the grand event.
Co-Founder of the IRCSO, Mr. Yesu Persaud, was very appreciative of the success of the event, which he told the Chronicle he never doubted in the first place.
Persaud, a very successful businessman, indicated that although the event was one to celebrate and observe the arrival of Indians to Guyana, it was also one in which "we should use as a stepping stone to foster national unity among all our peoples."