On behalf of the Rajkumari Cultural Center for Indo-Caribbean Culture in New York City (RCC), I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the Yankarran family and Anand's fans around the world.
We were especially fond of Anand, he was one of our many patrons and indeed one of our most esteemed teachers and performers.
In addition to conducting workshops at RCC, he performed many times during our annual showcase called Kitchrie.
We have always brought custodians from Trinidad, Guyana and Suriname to teach at RCC and amongst our very best was Anand.
He was very generous with his time and always made sure that each student was getting the lesson right.
He always preferred Denyse Baboolal, one of our top students, to dance for him when he performed here in New York City.
Baboolal has gone on to establish Jaya Devi Arts in south Florida, now the largest school for Indo-Caribbean Culture in Florida.
At the height of his fame it is said Anand was more popular than the prime minister, the president and the West Indies cricket team combined.
Everyone and their grandma was playing his music.
He was in such demand that he slept during the day and performed every night.
His songs could be heard on the radio twice every hour, more than Madonna, Whitney Houston or Micheal Jackson, at least in Trinidad, Guyana and Suriname.
Such was his reach that every chutney signer emulated him and sought his advice.
Every Hindu temple invited him for Sunday puja, and over the years he must have visited them all.
Here in New York City his shows were always sold out, and we were very fortunate that whenever he was on the RCC bill, we would also sell out the venue.
Above all, we found him to be a kind and generous gentleman and that, along with his creativity and popularity, makes him the Raja of Trinidad.
 
Darrel G Sukhdeo
Treasurer and Board Member, Rajkumari
Center for Indo-Caribbean Culture, New York