IAC unveils plans for Indian Arrival

Apr 16, 2010 News

The IAC representatives at yesterday’s press conference.

– Arts and History Museum to be launched

The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC), as part of its observances for Indian Arrival, will host its customary Mela events which start on April 25, and end on Indian Arrival Day, May 5, in addition to launching an Indian Museum of Arts and History.
This was revealed by the entity’s executives at a press conference held at Red House yesterday.
Four persons are set to receive awards for their outstanding contributions, one posthumously. The names and date will be revealed this month.
Executive member Neaz Subhan reminded the gathering that Indian Arrival Day is observed on May 5, and traditionally for the past eight years the IAC has been organizing events countrywide.
He stated that there will be three Melas: April 25 at the National Park in Georgetown, May 2 at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground, and May 5 at the Port Moranut Community Centre ground.
Subhan then revealed that the IAC is in the process of launching a Museum of Arts and History. He mentioned that there has been a setback with the location, since efforts were made to acquire a property, but unfortunately, circumstances changed.
It was further pointed out that if anyone is interested in making available a property (not necessarily in Georgetown) for the Museum, the IAC would be enthusiastic to enter into discussions.
The Melas, it was said, will continue with the tradition to provide entertainment in various forms, songs, dance, poetry, drama and a wide variety of exhibits being made available to procure and consume. This year there will be only Guyanese performers performing at the events, and no artistes will be visiting from India. There will be zero tolerance for alcohol and gambling at the events.
According to Raymond Azeez, sponsorship is needed to make the event a success, and an appeal is being made to the business community to assist in contributing.
He added that GT&T is onboard, as are Banks DIH and DDL, along with several other businesses.
Meanwhile Aditya Persaud noted that there will be a massive tassa drumming competition, with prizes available. The first prize of $50,000 has been donated by GT&T. All tassa groups interested in participating can contact the IAC official at telephone number 625-6903.
And IAC representative Devina Deodat, on a poignant note, stressed that it is disturbing that so many reported cases of child abuse, especially molestation of young girls, are being perpetuated.
She also registered the IAC’s concern of the passing of Sangeeta Persaud (under circumstances that may still be under investigation) since many Guyanese have recorded their concerns with the IAC.
“The IAC urges the authority to be thorough in their investigation so that the perpetrators can face the full penalty of the law.”