On November 15, Kalicharan Mas, a renowned Carnival band, launched its 2026 presentation titled ‘Bedazzle at the Lobby’ at Paria Suits in La Romaine. The event was graced by San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris, bandleaders Sterlin Mahase and Ayana Kalicharan-Mahase, and a host of models. The band, originally founded by the husband-and-wife duo Ivan and Wendy Kalicharan, has an illustrious history, having won the San Fernando Band of the Year title 31 times. Tragically, Wendy Kalicharan passed away in May 2024 after a battle with cancer. Her daughter and co-bandleader, Ayana Kalicharan-Mahase, paid a heartfelt tribute, describing her mother’s life as ‘beautiful and glittery,’ which deeply influenced the designs for the upcoming Carnival presentation. The launch featured six distinct sections: Oro, Onyx, Mystic Quartz, Larimar, Bronzite, and Rose Quartz. Ayana emphasized that the theme transcends mere sparkle, aiming to evoke impact, emotion, and elevated beauty. She described ‘Bedazzle at the Lobby’ as a celebration of brilliance, both literal and metaphorical, connecting to gemstones to create a rich tapestry of meaning and emotional resonance. The event also served as a ‘thank you’ to loyal revellers, culminating in an after-party to honor their enduring support.