Wearing feathered costumes which Lionel Jagessar designed more than a decade ago, hundreds of masqueraders chipped down the streets of San Fernando in the blazing heat for a final tribute to the iconic masman who died last Saturday .
The traditional Carnival costumed characters whom Jagessar determinedly preserved when many other bandleaders opted for bikini and beads, participated in the procession.
They journeyed from Coffee Street, Mucurapo Street to Gransaul Street where his funeral rites were held.
Whipmasters led the procession, their whips cracking loudly. Children from Grant Memorial Primary School screamed.
A police out-rider escorts the hearse transporting the King of Indian Mas, Lionel Jagessar Sr, while an entourage of masqueraders wearing constumes he made parade the streets of San Fernando, in a final farewell and tribute to the legendary masman and Carnival icon. [Image by KRISTIAN DE SILVA]
Calysoes blared from music trucks and people lined the street to wave at the passing hearse. Police kept the traffic at bay, diverting motorists as needed to clear the way for the entourage.
Jagessar's wife, Rosemarie Kuru-Jagessar, stood looking on as mourners waved their feathered staffs and headdresses. People came out of stores and buildings to see the special procession.
As the procession broke the corner of Sutton and Gransaul Streets, the calypsoes were replaced with Indian bhajans.
Jagessar's favourite tune, "Sona Sona Laghay", blared from the speakers while relatives wept.
The coffin was then taken for a final time inside the humble wooden house where Jagessar lived and worked for 72 years.
Guardian Media will bring you full funeral coverage in tonight's CNC3 newscast.
