Ebuzz News
Archived: National Geographic Shares Trinidad Blue Devils With Millions
National Geographic Travel features T&T’s Carnival on its Instagram feed.
No Bikinis and beads mas for National Geographic Travel- the globally known portal that continues to highlight awesome destinations across the world. Nope. They wanted the underlying truth of T&T’s much touted “Greatest Show On Earth” and in an Instagram feature, the recognised travel voice chose to shine its light on the infamous Blue Devil carnival character- a carnival staple no doubt.
Over eight million people may now get a chance to see, and through Nat Geo’s explanation of what a Blue Devil is, gain clarity on the fictitious Carnival character that has been a part of traditional carnivals in the Caribbean, for decades. Already, the photo posted by the international media house, has amassed over 20 thousand likes, and over 190 comments on the subject had been posted up to the time of this feature by EBUZZTT.
In its explanation, National Geographic Travel writes,“Carnival is not just the bikini and feather displays that most Travel magazines showcase every year. Its origins are much more interesting and raw and often dark. In the #TraditionalMas of #PortofSpain, #Trinidad you will see Bats, Dragons, “Fancy Indians,” #MidnightRobbers, #MokoJumbies, #PierrotGrenade, and in this photo – BLUE DEVILS! The blue devils are the most energetic traditional characters in the Carnival of Trinidad and come out of the tradition of the #JabMolassie, French vernacular for “Molasses Devil.” The jab malassie would carry chains, and wear locks and keys around his waist, and carry a pitch fork. In this case the whole body is smeared with blue paint and the young men wear Wolf masks. The Blue devil “wines” (gyrates) to a beat that is played on tins or pans by his imps. Other devils or imps hold the chains or ropes around their waists, restraining their masked companions as they lunge savagely at the crowd screaming and showing their teeth, thrusting single fingers in the air to express their demand for money, sometimes receiving it with a net.”
Ronnie and Caro are the 2016 Champs of the Road!
True Carnival’s traditions, some say, have been replaced by a bikini and beads culture that has encouraged a lack of appreciation for the authentic Trinbago carnival culture. Two years prior to this year’s festival, pan ensemble, All Stars copped the top position on the masquerade route with their traditional Fancy Sailor presentations in both years. This year however, contributors to the art form, Ronnie and Caro have sealed the deal with their presentation, “Tears Of…” In an online post, Carol Mc Intosh said, “Congrats to our R&C Family. This win is not only ours but to our masqueraders, our committee, friends, sponsors, family- we sincerely thank you.”
Carnival Tribe’s The Lost Tribe came in second while Trini Revellers took the third place spot in the Large band category this year. K2K Alliance emerged victorious in the medium band category with their presentation, “Searching for Shangri-La”, a presentation that boldly fused fashion with mas.
Miami Carnival
Miami Carnival is On. Community Ready to Help Rebuild, In the Aftermath of Hurricane.
Ahead of the celebration of its 40th anniversary, The Miami Broward Carnival Host Committee is today extending its heartfelt sympathies and prayers to all those affected by Hurricane Milton. In a media release issued, the committee reaffirms its commitment to helping to support all rebuilding and restoration efforts.
“Miami Carnival has always been a symbol of resilience, joy, and togetherness; this year is no exception. As the West Coast and Central Florida face the devastating aftermath impacts of this Category 3 storm, we stand in solidarity with the affected families and communities,” read the media release. The committee highlights that amid preparations for the festival this weekend, the recent natural disaster has undoubtedly deepened its sense of gratitude for the traditions and community bonds that the carnival has been strengthened by. “Our thoughts are with all impacted communities as they begin the journey toward recovery and healing.”
Machel Montano To Be Honored at Panorama on Friday.
As part of this year’s milestone celebration, Miami Carnival, the City of Lauderhill and the City of Miami will honor the contributions of Soca legend, Machel Montano at the Miami Broward Panorama on Friday. The event takes place at the Central Broward Park in Lauderhill and the Miami Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert on Sunday, October 13th will be staged at the Miami Dade County Fair & Expo, Inc.
“Montano, a Grammy-recognized, multi-award-winning artist, and producer, has brought joy and pride to the Caribbean diaspora through his music for decades. As the King of Soca, Montano has won ten Road March titles, a prestigious honor in Trinidad and Tobago Carnival,” the committee’s statement read.
Maintaining its commitment to aiding with relief efforts following the recent hurricane, then host committee is calling on the broader community to support the Caribbean Strong Relief Efforts in partnership with the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), which has already mobilized to provide aid to those impacted by Hurricane Milton. “As part of our commitment to supporting the Caribbean community, Miami Carnival will be donating to these relief efforts and encouraging all to contribute, whether through time, donations, or resources, to support the ongoing relief efforts.”
To donate or volunteer with Caribbean Strong, please visit:
Global Empowerment Mission Volunteer Signup. For event updates, ticket sales, and transportation information for the Miami Carnival, please visit miamicarnival.org
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