Rain didn’t stop Phagwa love

JULIEN NEAVES

DESPITE heavy rains about 50 people turned out yesterday afternoon to celebrate the colourful festival of Phagwa at the Hindu Prachaar Kendra Phagwa celebrations.

When Newsday arrived at the event, held at the Kendra grounds, on Gilibia Trace, Raghunanan Road, Enterprise, most people were huddled under tents to avoid the pouring rain while children and others already covered in multi-coloured dyes synonymous with the festival played in the rain. A large stage had also been set up where performances were being held.

Vernon Pancho, 49, described the rains as “God work.” He said that has always celebrated Phagwa from a little boy in Tacarigua.

“Weather or no weather can’t stop we. We is Carnival lovers. Rain or storm.”

Candice Rambharath said she thought coming out yesterday would be fun and though she did not expect so much rain she still enjoyed herself. Her friend Haily Dookie said “I just real love Phagwa. Since I know myself I playing.” Dookie said she also did not realise that the rain would be so bad.

Kailaash Ramhit said he had not played Phagwa for four years because he does not like to get messy but he was influenced by friends to revisit the festival.

Chan Ramlogan, 70, said she came out because she loves Phagwa and she loves playing but was only observing yesterday because she was mourning her sister who died. The festival is annually celebrated at the Aranguez Savannah as well but after celebrating their 50th anniversary last year the National Phagwa Council announced the event was cancelled.