By Prior Beharry
A Divali celebration to honour the youth and keep traditions alive takes place at Mangra Street Lower Aranguez on Saturday.
A Mother Lakshmi pooja at 6 pm starts off the First Annual Divali Celebration of the residents.
Member of the organising committee Renny Toolsie said the celebrations were envisioned to keep traditions alive and show the young people something positive since “our society is going down the drain.”
It is a view shared by his colleague Shawn Ramdass who said while the celebration was to bring the community together, it was also one honouring the young people.
He said, “We will honour four young boys 18 years and under to show that they are important.”
Ramdass added, “When you see people honouring the elderly that is fine. But the youth must be praised and promoted too, and that’s what we are doing. Since we have some hardworking boys here.”
The prayers start at 6 pm and it will be followed by entertainment including music from Charlie’s Beena Sangeet. Mootoo’s Band and performances by the Shaheed Ali and Suryanika Dance Group will also entertain the audience.
It will be hosted by Kenneth Supersad and there will be instant photos and mehandi. Indian delicacies will be on sale.
Ramdass pointed out that the oldest member of Mootoo’s Band from the Biche area was 32 years and this was to emphasise the focus on youth.
