Kamla Sends Condolences on Passing of Anand Yankaran
Today as we begin a New Year I join our national community in mourning the passing of a national cultural icon.
I was deeply saddened to learn that the distinctive voice of Anand Yankaran, an accomplished chutney artiste, has been silenced by his passing. Isaac was a member of the well-known Yankaran family, recognized throughout the country and internationally for producing talented musicians and singers.
Born in Carapichaima, Anand Yankaran learned from his famous father, Issac Yankaran, and brothers, and began singing with the family at an early age. He followed the Indian classical genre of music but was also attracted to the chutney style, which blended the best of East and West to become a unique musical style in Trinidad and Tobago. He was always eager to assist in the development and promotion of local Indian culture.
Anand was never shy about his art and wherever he performed he had audiences joining in and asking for more. He had a unique style and was a gifted performer, and his passing has left a void in the culture of Trinidad and Tobago. It is my hope that his music will continue to be enjoyed by future generations, and that our young people will look to Anand Yankaran’s music for inspiration in the years to come, continuing his legacy.
On behalf of my family and my extended UNC family I extended deepest condolences to the Yankaran family.
KAMLA PERSAD-BISSESSAR