Dragon Boys emerge as winners at Republic Bank Tassa Taal 2024

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, May 28, 2024: On Saturday, May 25, 2024, hundreds of spectators came out to Penal to enjoy the pulsating rhythms of tassa at Republic Bank’s annual Tassa Taal competition. Hosted by the Bank’s Penal Branch, this year was the 40th edition of the celebration formerly known as Tassarama. This ruby anniversary proved to be a spectacular fusion of exhilarating music, vibrant colours, and lively dances which created an atmosphere filled with joy and nostalgia.

The dynamic and colourful competition was divided into three categories; Primary Schools Dance; Secondary Schools Tassa and Senior Tassa. In the primary school category, Clarke Road Hindu Primary School copped first place as well as the People's Choice award, with Ramai Trace Hindu finishing second and Woodland Hindu (SDMS) coming in third.

The secondary school category saw Naparima College taking top spot along with People's Choice honours. Marabella North finished second and won the prize for best cultural depiction. The only all-female tassa band on the day, Parvati Girls’ Hindu College took third place in the competition.

The zenith of the event was the senior category where veterans Dragon Boys Tassa Band swept the board, winning the championship title along with the People's Choice award. Rounding out the top were Charlie Boys Tassa Group and South United Tassa Drummers who finished second and third respectively. The prize for Best Cultural Depiction was awarded to Central Rhythmz Tassa Drummerz.

In addressing the crowd, Republic Bank’s Regional Sales Manager, Commercial and Retail Banking, Geeta Jairam stated “We must continue to hold onto these traditions and honour our cultural heritage so that our children can follow in our footsteps and keep these traditions alive.” More than just a competition, through the support of the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference Corporate Social Responsibility programme, this event aims to keep the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago alive.