Pichakaaree singers compete for title

The competition is one of the major events of the kendra’s Phagwa festival celebrations.

The weekend activities begin with Holika Dahan today at 6.30 pm at its grounds at Raghunanan Road, East off Southern Main Road, Enterprise.

At last Saturday’s pichakaaree qualifying round several youthful first timers competed alongside the veterans.

The finalists are Mukesh Babooram, Savitri Beharry, Akshaye Khandoo, Rikki Khandoo, Mohip Poonwassie, Pooja Ramoutar, Surendra Ramoutar, Nirmala Ramdass Singh, Toolsie Ramdass Singh, Kamaldai Ramkissoon, Shanta Ramnath and Reena Teelucksingh.

Singers and composers will be judged on best theme pichakaaree, best social commentary, best festive pichakaaree, most imaginative use of Hindi and costuming, props and stage presentations.

Other activities will include children’s games, the human pyramid team sport and the vibrant Ranga Barase. The festival is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the end of indentureship.