Raymond Ramnarine, who was crowned the 2013 Lotto Plus Chutney Soca Monarch last weekend, mounted a 40-foot trailer truck yesterday and went on a victory rally through South Trinidad.
Ramnarine, leader of the band Dil-e-Nadan, said he was overwhelmed by the love and support since winning the title on Sunday morning.
“I can’t believe the way people are calling and telling me they supporting me. I am receiving so much love. I just want to thank the people who supported me. They are the reason for my success over the years,” he said.
Ramnarine said his mission is to promote culture and chutney music in schools.
“I want to do so much during this year. This is not just a title. I want to penetrate into the schools and help youths to understand their culture. I want to go in with a dholak and dhantal (Indian musical instruments) and show them true chutney music,” he said.
Ramnarine, accompanied by band member Imran Beharry and DJ Sean Leonard, drove through San Fernando, La Romaine, Oropouche, Fyzabad, Siparia, Penal, Debe, Barrackpore and other areas.
“I just want to thank my loyal fans, who have been supporting me throughout the years.
“Without you I would have never been victorious. I didn’t enter this competition because of the money. I did it for the fans. They called on me and I answered,” he said.
Ramnarine won the title with his chutney single, “I ain’t marriding no more”.
He secured 43.7 points to beat out 16 other contestants. Six-time chutney soca monarch, Samraj “Rikki Jai” Jaimungal, placed second, while defending champion Kris “KI” Persad, came in at third position.