The word Mashramani is derived also from the Amerindian language and in translation means “the celebration of a job well done”.

Mashramani, sometimes referred to as “Mash”, is usually observed on the 23 February – Guyana’s Republic Day – to commemorate the “Birth of the Republic”. It is probably the most colorful 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.

Read more at: http://www.guyana.org/Handbook/festival.html

Photo courtesy: www.guyanatimesgy.com