“Clash of the Titans” marks 15 years

Inspiration often finds those who actively chase it, but 15 years ago it arrived quite discreetly, settling on the most unexpected moment for Mahendra Ramkellawan.
Eleven years ago, this unlikely inspiration landed directly in his mind, sparking a journey, diversifying itself against the normal traditions of night concerts.
Eleven years later, that single spark has evolved into Clash of the Titans, a major show drawing regional and international attention.
As the event prepares to kick off on March 28, this publication caught up with Ramkellawan, where he spoke about the genesis of the event, ultimately granting revelations about the show.
Reflecting during the interview, Ramkellawan provided insight into the evolution of the event and what patrons can expect.
According to him, he was consistently packing venues for shows previously with patrons eager to know what his next move would be.
Among those asking was a close friend, Junior Baksh, whose curiosity would help shape the future of the show.
“I had a friend named Junior Baksh, and he asked me, ‘What’s next?’ I told him I wanted to bring together artists from every part of the world – chutney, Indian music, everything – on one stage for one night. He said, ‘Let’s do that,’ and he helped finance it,” Ramkellawan recalled.
“I told him I wanted all the bands to clash one night at the National Stadium. I already had ‘Clash’, and he told me, ‘Put Titans to it.’ And just like that, it became Clash of the Titans,” he said.
Since its inception, the event has undergone significant transformation. While its early years attracted massive crowds, Ramkellawan noted that continuous upgrades have been essential to keeping the show relevant.
“From then to now, everything has evolved – the sound systems, the lighting, the décor. But more importantly, it’s a new generation now,” he explained.
That generational shift has required deliberate outreach efforts. Despite the event’s established name, Ramkellawan emphasised the importance of maintaining strong grassroots promotion.
“You still have to do the groundwork. Some young people don’t even know what Clash of the Titans is because they were too young back then. That’s why you see the billboards everywhere. If you’re in Guyana and don’t know when it is, then you’re not paying attention,” he said.
This year, organisers have made a move to reflect changing audience tastes by refreshing the line-up.
At the same time, the show is placing greater emphasis on local talent, with Guyanese artists now making up a significant portion of the line-up.
“We’re bringing in a new generation of performers. We dropped some of the usual names and introduced new talent like Yung Bredda to connect with younger patrons. We have so many talented Guyanese artists now – they make up half of the show with 30 to 50 artists on stage; everything has to be organised. While one person is performing, the next is already lined up. That’s how we keep it flowing smoothly,” Ramkellawan explained.
Behind all of the front-stage glitz and glam, meticulous planning ensures the smooth execution of what is often a packed schedule of performers. He credited his experienced team, including DJ Sheriff and WR Reyes, for maintaining high production standards and ensuring tight time management. Preparation for the event, he noted, begins well in advance.
“The preparation already started very early; his is not something you wait on – it takes serious planning,” he said.
Beyond Clash of the Titans, Ramkellawan is also exploring expansion opportunities through his other ventures, including Regent Street Lounge, as Guyana’s entertainment and hospitality sector continues to grow.
“Guyana is changing. Prices are matching places like New York, and that shows there’s opportunity. We’re looking at expanding and building something even bigger,” he said.
Clash of the Titans 2026 is exploding on March 28 at the National Stadium with the biggest names in Chutney and Soca – Young Bredda, Ravi B, KI & the band, Tony Cutzz, Vicadi, Nisha B, Geeta Bistram, Freestyle Band, Karma, Daks New Generation Band, Sandesh, WR Reaz, DJ Sheriff, amongst over 50 artists.