Carapichaima a beacon of Carnival light

THE EDITOR: Trinidad Carnival, reputed to be “The Greatest Show On Earth”, has come and gone and has maintained the high level of celebration of former years. It was not short of fantastic street displays — this year being the best, when compared to previous years.

Notably, during this year, revelers were not free from fear as the criminal elements did not abate. The police were commended by all for good work in maintaining law and order. Nothing, however, could lessen the exuberance of the masqueraders. They held back nothing. They were simply enjoying every moment of the incomparable festival. I do no think that there was any mas’-playing community in the country that did not excel in their ecstatic performances. Chaguanas painted the streets with glittering colours and filled the air with tantalising rhythms.

I cannot elaborate too much about the Carapichaima revellers, not having witnessed the celebrations first-hand. But it is a village that manifests patriotism with wholehearted celebration and undoubtedly makes the tourists aware of our hospitality. Carapichaima, when it comes to Carnival, is one of the outstanding suburbs of Chaguanas that gives its best and outshines many. Two sisters are a pivotal part of the tireless working committee by providing the inspiration that animates others. In 1947, their grandfather Mr Mohansingh, initiated Carnival shows at Carapichaima.

He was succeeded by his son, B M Singh, who made many improvements to the festival. When the late B M Singh passed away, he was succeeded by his inexhaustible daughters — Sue and Jill Singh — who considered the appointment a family legacy to be preserved and invigorated. This they always accomplish with dignity and zeal. They are both so loyal to the district they serve and eager to expand its growth and influence that they frequently expend their own resources and time. They regularly sacrifice family, work and study commitments to ensure that Carnival in Carapichaima continues to grow and maintain its outstanding level of success. For the future, I predict that Carapichaima Carnival will continue to be Number One outside of city limits. I extend to them, as the nation will undoubtedly do, my best wishes for health and strength. I hope others will be inspired by their loyalty in the years to come.

SALER AMEERALI
Eleanore Street
Chaguanas