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IAC to reenact East Indians’ arrival to Guyana
The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) is looking to spearhead an initiative where history can be relived on the shores of Guyana.
During a recent press conference at the Guyana National Library, Executive Member of the organization, Neaz Subhan said that the IAC has plans to re-enact the arrival of Indians to Guyana by way of a boat cruise, which will be executed along the Demerara River on April 27.
According to Subhan, efforts are being made to recreate the related aesthetics of either the Whitby or the Hesperus, the ships that brought the first set of Indentured labourers to the Land of Many Waters, in 1838.
The Hesperus
“It is intended to re-enact aspects of the historic arrival of East Indian ancestors from India 176 years ago, and to provide the opportunity for Guyanese to symbolically relive that journey which has impacted and shaped our nation in many ways,” Subhan said.
He added too that those wanting to be part of the cruise would be asked to attire themselves in outfits similar to those worn by the East Indian foreparents when they first arrived here. Subhan noted that the intention is basically to mimic the historic event as much as possible.
The IAC Executive said that although the organization would want the cruise to become an annual activity, such a move is dependent on the success of the upcoming inaugural boat cruise.
“The IAC believes that this event would present another mode to complement the commemoration and celebration of Indian arrival to Guyana.”
The press briefing saw the IAC announcing this year’s calendar of events to commemorate Indian Arrival Day on May 5.
The activities will kick off today with the hosting the annual Phagwah Mela. Titled- “Rang Barse,” the usually grand event also entails a rich cultural show on the tarmac of the Bath Settlement Public Road, West Coast Berbice.
In addition to the boat cruise, there will also be grand Indian Arrival Day Melas, which are likely to feature International artistes performing alongside some local singers, dancers and musicians.
Subhan said that although the IAC started its Arrival Day celebrations with just one mela, it has expanded over the years, into the three counties.
The first mela will be held at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground, while another will hosted at the Albion Community Centre Ground on May 5.
Subhan said that the IAC endeavours that the hosting of the many activities would ably showcase the rich Indian cultural heritage.
He added that last year, the IAC held its inaugural “Choka Fest,” and in light of its success, this activity is also a feature of this year’s calendar of events.
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