Hosay Tazia and Tassa

An Indo-Caribbean Festival…

Come learn what is Hosay/ Tazia and see demonstration of the Hosay tassa drumming hands

This custom was brought to Trinidad by indentured laborers in 1854. By the end of the 60’s it was viewed as a spectacular street theatre with parade of Tadjahs (Tal Mahals), accompanied by musical sounds of the TASSA Drumming. Hosay/ Tazia takes place in two prominent East Indian communities in Trinidad–St. James in the North and Cedros in the South.And in Jamaica.  Master builders, designers, and craftsmen build model mausoleums/ tombs by hand called Tadjahs. Creating this masterpiece is very complex. Craftsmen, that include community members, create thousands of unique decorations by hand, using multicolored tinsel foil and paper. The main structure of the Tadjahs is constructed of wood, bamboo and Styrofoam sheets.

Our extensive research showed that while hosay exist on a grand scale in Trinidad, because it is time consuming and because of the country’s economic situation, tadjahs are shrinking in size. It is also dying a slow death in Jamaica and non-existing in Suriname and Guyana. Jayadevi’s mission is to preserve educate and promote these dying artform and ancient crafts.  Food and drinks will be on sale along with lots of games for bothe kids and adults such as hoola hoop contest, treasure chest, sack race, ring toss and a full playground!!!

Master Hosay Designer and Builder from Trinidad & Tobago: Reish Baboolal

Research Lecturer: Reish Baboolal

Tassa Drum Groups: Boodoosingh Tassa, Trinlando from Orlando, South Stars from Miami, Dynamic Rhythms, and more!!!