Central Rhythmz Tassa Drummers captures the 2026 Republic Bank Tassa Taal crown

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, May 20, 2026: Central Rhythmz Tassa Drummers emerged as champions in the Senior Category of Republic Bank Tassa Taal 2026, held on Saturday, May 16 at the Samar Entertainment Centre, Debe. The event was hosted by Republic Bank’s Penal Branch and marked the 42nd edition of the cultural showcase, formerly known as Tassarama.

The competition brought together over a dozen tassa groups from across Trinidad and Tobago, delivering vibrant performances across three categories: Primary Schools, Secondary Schools, and Seniors.

In the Primary School Category, Dayanand Memorial Vedic secured first place and Best Cultural Depiction, with Avocat Vedic placing second. Robert Village Hindu School placed third and also captured the People’s Choice Award.

The Secondary School Category saw history made as Parvati Girls Hindu College became the first all-girls school to win first place, also securing People’s Choice and Best Cultural Depiction. Shiva Boys Hindu College placed second, followed by Barrackpore East Secondary School in third.

In the Senior Category, Central Rhythmz Tassa Drummers claimed the title while also winning Best Cultural Depiction. South United Tassa Drummers placed second, with Island Rhythmz All Starz Tassa Band finishing third and taking the People’s Choice Award.

Speaking at the event, Regional Sales Manager, Commercial and Retail Banking, Republic Bank, Geeta Jairam, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to cultural preservation: “At Republic Bank, we are pleased to support initiatives like Tassa Taal, which keep our traditions alive and relevant. Through our Power to Make a Difference programme, we continue to invest in culture, youth development, and national pride.”

Republic Bank Tassa Taal remains more than a competition, it is a celebration of heritage, talent, and community spirit, made possible through the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference programme.