Guyanese Traditions
Guyanese culture reflects the influence of African, Indian, French, Amerindian, Chinese, British, Dutch, Portuguese, Caribbean and American culture, reflected in the various festivals celebrated throughout the year. Most of the festivals have especial significance to Guyanese regardless of their ethnic origins or religious persuasions. Many religions are practised in Guyana, the predominant ones being Christianity, Hinduism and Islam, Muslim. The word Mashramani is derived also from the Amerindian language and in translation means "the celebration of a job well done".
Here is some information about the various popular celebrations in Guyana:
Mashramani, sometimes referred to as "Mash", is usually observed on the 23rd day of February - Guyana's Republic Day - to commemorate the "Birth of the Republic". It is probably the most colourful of all the festivals. There are spectacular costume competitions, float parades, masquerade bands, and dancing in the streets to the accompaniment of steel band music and calypsoes. Masquerades frequent the streets performing acrobatic dance routines, a vivid reminder of Guyana's African heritage. Calypso competitions with their witty social commentaries are another integral part of "Mash", and this culminates in the coronation of a King or Queen for the particular year.
Phagwah, also known as Holi, is a Hindu religious holiday observed in March to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Traditionally, people wear white on Phagwah day and indulge in the throwing upon each other of a harmless liquid called abeer. Abeer is a red dye which symbolizes the blood of the tyrannical King Kiranya who in Hindu lore was ordered burnt alive by his son Prince Prahalad because of the suffering which his people endured at the hands of his father. Powder, perfume, and water are also thrown on family, friends and neighbours on this day by Hindus and non-Hindus alike in what is an amusing, good-natured and joyful celebration.
Easter: Hot "crossbuns" are served and eaten, and most Christian families attend church services during the day. The season ends on Easter Monday when the entire nation seems to participate in a grand all-day picnic which includes the flying of kites to signify and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and his ascension into heaven.
Eid-Ul-Azha: This Muslim holy day celebrates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to offer his son Ishmael as a sacrifice to Allah. It teaches that Allah will bring peace and happiness to those who submit completely to his will. Eid-Ul-Azha is celebrated by sacrificing fully grown animals whose meat is shared among relatives, the poor and the sacrificer's households.
