By: Shivana Lal/Photos: Ishmael Salandy
George Singh, CEO of Southex and the man behind Chutney Soca Monarch, and his team put on yet another show-stopping edition of Chutney Soca Monarch 2026, as thousands packed Skinner Park for one of the most electrifying nights of the Carnival season.
The San Fernando venue came alive on January 31 as the fourteen finalists lit up the stage, each vying for the coveted Chutney Soca Monarch crown. With energy pulsing through the venue and patrons waving flags and dancing in the aisles, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric.
Backed by the powerful sounds of RG The Band, both young stars and seasoned performers delivered thrilling performances that kept the crowd on their feet throughout the night.
Among the most anticipated acts was Rasika “D Rani” Dindial, who captivated the audience with a vibrant rendition of her hit song “Pong D Damadol.” Dressed in elegant traditional Indian wear, the newly crowned Traditional Monarch winner had the audience singing along to every refrain, proving once again why she remains a crowd favourite.
The excitement intensified when Lady Lava and Ravi B took to the stage. Their performance of the viral hit “Cyah Pick” sent the audience into a frenzy, earning them not only third place but one of the loudest receptions of the night.
Defending queen and 2026 titleholder Savita Singh raised the bar with a spectacular show that blended music and visual spectacle. In a breathtaking moment, a crane lifted her high above the audience mid-performance, while a dazzling drone light display illuminated the night sky, adding a dramatic flair to her set.
Wackerman’s performance delivered both entertainment and thought-provoking commentary. Through his song “Bring Yuh Mother Come,” the artiste tackled the serious issue of bullying, using the Chutney Soca Monarch stage to send a powerful social message.
Master Saleem also brought theatrical flair to the competition, transforming the stage into a courtroom setting during his performance of “Bhoujie,” engaging the crowd with storytelling and humour.
The 2026 edition of Chutney Soca Monarch also celebrated musical unity, featuring cross-industry collaborations that thrilled fans. Among them were performances featuring calypso legend Lord Nelson alongside the Mau Brothers and Rawytee Ramroop, as well as a dynamic pairing of Amit Sagram and Oscar B.
Adding even more star power to the night, 2025 defending champion Machel Montano ignited the stage with Mela Caribe as they delivered an energetic performance of “Dancing in the Streets,” reminding patrons why the King of Soca remains one of the region’s most commanding performers.
From cultural celebration and theatrical storytelling to high-energy collaborations and stunning stage effects, Chutney Soca Monarch 2026 once again proved why it remains one of the most anticipated and beloved events of the Carnival calendar. Under the leadership of George Singh and the Southex team, the show continues to grow in scale, spectacle and cultural impact year after year.
