-by Nakasia Logan

And as we continue celebrating our Diamond Jubilee, the country’s rich cultural diversity was at the weekend brought to life at the Guyana Festival, where traditions from generations past was not only showcased, but preserved and passed on to younger generations. 

In the African booth, patrons were taken on a journey through time, as displays showed traditional items once commonly used by our ancestors, including coal pots, lanterns, old flat irons and scrubbing board.

The boot also highlighted the use of natural herbs and bushes that were traditionally used for medicinal and cultural purposes, sparking conversations among visitors about how life has evolved over the decades. 

“The famous scrubbing board you might know about, we had to scrub the clothes up there, we didn’t have electricity, these were famous irons, one is lighter, one is heavier,” explained Ambrozine Sears, Secretary of the New Seaview Cultural Organisation.

One visitor, Amanda Singh, said the experience was especially meaningful, as it allowed her to teach her daughter about life before modern technologies. 

Meanwhile at the Chinese booth, patrons learned about acupuncture, an ancient healing practice still used around the world today, and other techniques as a form of traditional medicine. 

The festival also highlighted the artistry of Guyana’s indigenous peoples and the East Indian culture, among others.