Caption: Wendy Kalicharan. Photo: Facebook

CARNIVAL icon Wendy Kalicharan has passed away at age 68 following a battle with cancer.

Kalicharan, a former National Queen of the Bands and held the title multiple-times of San Fernando Queen of the Bands, died at her home in San Fernando on Thursday.

Her daughter Ayana Kalicharan confirmed that she was holding her mother’s hand when she passed away at 1.30 pm.

Kalicharan was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer in June 2023 and had been receiving treatment at the San Fernando General Hospital’s oncology clinic. She then underwent radiation therapy in February this year.

Ayana, together with her brother Aaron, took over management of Kalicharan Mas from their parents and vowed to continue Ivan and Wendy Kanlicharan legacy.

Wendy Kalicharan was a well known figure in Carnival culture of Trinidad and Tobago, especially in San Fernando.

Alongside her husband Ivan Kalicharan, she co-founded Kalicharan Mas in 1983, a mas band that became a foundation of southern Trinidad’s Carnival celebrations.

Under their leadership, Kalicharan Mas won the San Fernando Band of the Year title 31 times, including in 2025.

Kalicharan was celebrated as a bandleader and performer, securing the San Fernando Queen title seven times.

She was also involved in community events and cultural initiatives. In 2007, she collaborated with designer Jacqui Koon How for a charity fashion event on San Fernando Hill.

In recent years, her children Ayana and Aaron Kalicharan assumed leadership roles within the band, continuing the family’s Carnival legacy.

Confirmation of funeral plans is expected by Friday.