Diwali Special Edition October 2025

OCTOBER 2025

“Keeping you connected”

Richard Marles Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Defence, Member for

Penny Wong Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator for South Australia

Minister for Education, Member for Blaxland

Tanya Plibersek

Social Services, Member for Sydney

Minister for Small Business, International Development, Member for Cowan

Andrew Giles Minister for Skills and Training, Member for Scullin

WHAT’S INSIDE

24

40 Hours, One Mission: Sydney Welcomes the Woman Behind the World’s First All-Female Lunar Mission

28 Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Strengthens Strategic Ties During Sydney Visit

30 “BLOOD@YOUR SERVICE” Hosts 4th Blood Donation Camp in Adelaide: A Continuing Mission of Hope and Life

32 Durga Puja Celebration in Adelaide Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharadotsava, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Eastern India.

10 64 16 08 44

34

OFBJP South Australia Hosts Blood and Food Donation Drives in Honour of India PM Modi’s 75th Birthday

37 Medicare Mental Health is here for you Department of Health, Disability, and Aging

39 Spare Bedrooms and the Housing Crisis: Why Incentives Work Better Than Punishment

40 Shaping Our Future Together: The Courage to Cooperate in an Age of Division

PUBLISHER

Desi Media Group (Desi Australia Pty Ltd)

Editor-in-chief

Arti Banga

NSW Editor:

Sukruti Narayanan

Sales and Marketing:

Dimple Deez

Victoria Editor:

Satinder Chawla

Queensland Editor:

Rajni Ghai Malhotra

ACT Editor:

Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Western Australia Editor:

Ankita Tandon South Australia Editor: Daljeet Bakshi Designer Ravi Mathur

Email

Hello Everyone,

As we step into the season of lights, it’s heartening to see how Diwali, along with its sister festivals like Tihar, Bandi Chhor Diwas, Kali Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, has transcended borders and traditions to become a global celebration of unity, light, and cultural pride. This edition explores how these festivals, deeply rooted in South Asian traditions, are being reimagined and embraced across the world, including right here in Australia.

From the Sydney Opera House glowing in Diwali colours to supermarkets offering festive décor, the visibility and acceptance of these traditions reflect a growing cultural richness in our public life. But these festivals are more than just decorative lights and sweets, they are stories of resilience, renewal, and reverence, celebrated by millions across diverse communities. This cover story captures not only the historical and spiritual depth of these festivals but also the vibrant way they are lighting up lives far from home. May this issue

Arti Banga Editor-in-Chief

inspire deeper connection, celebration, and understanding, wherever you are in the world.

Feel free to reach out to us at info@ DesiAustralia.com

Wishing you all a Happy, Prosperous and safe Diwali.

DesiAustralia.com

“Keeping you connected”

Sydney turned gold on 13th Oct night as Diwali celebrations lit up the city, with the Opera House sails glowing in tribute to the Festival of Lights.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE GLOWS AS A BEACON

OF LIGHT FOR DIWALI

The lighting of the sails is part of the NSW Government’s annual Diwali event – first held in 2011 – at the Museum of Contemporary Art, bringing together 200 community members, faith leaders, and dignitaries. The evening was a vibrant celebration of colour, culture, and connection. Diwali, or Deepavali, is celebrated across New South Wales by Hindu, Sikh, Jain and some Buddhist communities, and signifies the power of light over darkness and good over evil. These communities continue to contribute immensely to New South Wales, where their positive impact across multiple areas of life enriches all of us.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“The symbolism of Diwali couldn’t be more relevant in our multicultural society than right now. One of Diwali’s messages is that good triumphs over evil, to come together in joy and unity, working together to overcome darkness and division. “`, we lit the sails of the Opera House in honour of Diwali and the communities that celebrate it.

“The evening served as a reminder of NSW’s vibrant multiculturalism. and how celebrations like Diwali bring all different people and communities together, in a spirit of joy and unity.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

ON 13TH OCTOBER, WE LIT THE SAILS OF THE OPERA HOUSE IN HONOUR OF DIWALI AND THE COMMUNITIES THAT CELEBRATE IT.

“Diwali brings light, joy, and togetherness. It’s a time to honour tradition, celebrate community, and share in the warmth of connection. “New South Wales is proud to celebrate alongside our communities and sends its warm wishes to all who mark this beautiful occasion. “Diwali celebrations will be happening across the state, from Harris Park, Parramatta, Blacktown to Queanbeyan and Newcastle, and we encourage everyone to come along to celebrate.”

STARRY SARI NIGHT LIGHTS UP

LIVERPOOL WITH COLOUR, CULTURE,

AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Liverpool, Sydney – Liverpool City Council’s Starry Sari Night brought a dazzling display of South Asian culture, food, and community spirit to the heart of Liverpool this year, cementing its place as one of Sydney’s biggest multicultural block parties.

This year’s celebration drew 12,500 visitors to Liverpool’s CBD and contributed around $600,000 to the local economy. Across 2025, Liverpool’s festival program has already attracted over 260,000 visitors and generated a staggering $21.9 million in economic impact.

A Celebration with History Starry Sari Night began several years ago as a small community initiative to celebrate South Asian culture, fashion, and cuisine. Over time, it has grown into a major annual event that unites communities across Liverpool and beyond. What started as a colourful evening of music, food, and saris has evolved into a festival that showcases the very best of

multicultural Sydney.

Vibrant Festivities for All Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun

praised the event for bringing people together.

“Events like Starry Sari Night show

the very best of Liverpool. We might come from different backgrounds, but when we eat together, dance together, and celebrate together, we realise how much we have in common. People are voting with their feet and their wallets because they want to be part of something that unites us.”

From dazzling saris and Bollywood beats to mouthwatering street food and familyfriendly entertainment, Starry Sari Night transformed George Street into a vibrant festival precinct. The air was filled with the smells of curries, sweets, and snacks from across South Asia, while

festival-goers enjoyed live music, dance performances, and a Sari Showcase on the runway.

Other highlights included:

4Curry Cook-Off spicing up the night

4Market stalls featuring jewellery, fashion, and handmade treasures

4Family activities and art workshops

4Community and Support

The festival was made possible thanks to sponsors Remitly and Liverpool Nissan, as well as funding from the NSW Government

through its Open Streets program and the Permit/Plug/Play pilot program.

Mayor Mannoun emphasised the broader importance of events like Starry Sari Night:

“Cultural events like Starry Sari Night are not just fun – they are vital. They help us break down barriers, build understanding, and celebrate the common humanity that binds us all. Liverpool is proud to be a city where diversity is embraced, and where every community feels at home.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

Violators will face IMMEDIATE FINES and LEGAL PROSECUTION, with on-the-spot fines ranging between $500 and $1,000,000.

Funeral rites, including the scattering of ashes, are not permitted without official approval, in accordance with the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

The Satyam Ghaat at Haigh Park, Liverpool, is the only official Ghaat in New South Wales and serves as a sacred space for Sikh, Hindu, and Buddhist rituals. Maintained by Liverpool City Council, it experiences high visitation, leading to heavy pollution despite weekly cleanups. This area is now under surveillance and will be subject to regular patrols.

To protect the sanctity of this space and the environment, Council will be enforcing these rules without exception.

Approved Offerings:

• Flowers

• Flower buds

• Leaves

Prohibited Offerings:

• Coconuts

• Plastics

• Non-biodegradable items (jewellery, statues, clay pots)

• Fruit

• Rice

• Clothing

• Ashes

• Death rituals

Misuse may result in fines, prosecution, or closure of the Ghaat.

EARTHEN DREAMS LAMPS AND CLAY

By Abbas Raza Alvi

Every Diwali, when the first diya flickers to life, I am gently pulled back to a quieter time. A time filled with the scent of fresh earth, the sweetness of sugar batasha, and the soft glow of clay lamps lining every doorstep.

My grandmother, my Dadi, would always say that Diwali is not complete until every home on the street is lit with diyas. It was never just about lighting our own house. It was about making sure no one was left in darkness. Her words carried warmth, a sense of shared celebration, and a deep belief in togetherness.

As a child, I would wake early on

Dhanteras (the first day of Diwali), heart racing with excitement. The bazaar would already be alive with colour and sound. I would roam through the stalls, eyes wide at the rows of Clay Toys (mitti ke khilone), the piles of kheel, and the glittering sugar toys. I chose each clay toy like a secret treasure, adding them to my growing collection that I guarded proudly all year.

Those toys were never meant to last. A leg would break, the colour would fade, sometimes they would simply vanish in the chaos of everyday play. But they were never really lost. Because while their bodies were made of earth, the joy they brought was something far more lasting.

I grew up in Fatehgarh, a small town where Diwali and Eid echoed through the same streets. There was no need to ask who celebrated what. We just celebrated. Sweets were exchanged between homes, children played under shared skies, and faith made room for friendship.

For a few beautiful days, the world around us felt perfectly whole.

The clay toys my grandmother (Dadi) gave me did not survive the years. But the memories they left behind are still here. They live in the glow of every diya I light. They whisper in the laughter of children in the market. They shine in every act of kindness that reminds us of what festivals truly mean.

These memories are not made of clay. They are made of love. And love, unlike toys, does not break. Happy Diwali

About the author:

As a lifelong devotee of creative arts, Abbas believes that creativity has no boundaries, limitations, nationalities, religions, color or racial differences or any other barriers that humans erect around them. Creativity is a gift of God to mankind to express the feelings, joys and sorrows of humanity and our society.

HOMECOMING: A CINEMATIC

THE INDIAN FILM FESTIVAL OF

SYDNEY

RETURNS IN FULL COLOUR

Sydney’s big Bollywood moment made a dazzling return this October as the Indian Film Festival of Sydney lit up the city from the 9th to 11th, offering a vibrant three-day celebration of cinema, culture and storytelling. After a brief hiatus, the festival returned with renewed energy, kicking off in spectacular fashion with Full Plate, the latest film by acclaimed actor-turned-director Tannishtha Chatterjee.

Starring Kirti Kulhari alongside Sharib Hashmi, Monica Dogra and Indraneil Sengupta, Full Plate has already been making waves internationally after being selected for the Busan International Film Festival. The film follows a Muslim homemaker in Mumbai whose life takes an unexpected turn after her husband’s accident forces her to earn a

living, sparking both inner transformation and domestic tension. For Tannishtha, opening the Sydney festival with her directorial debut was “a full-circle moment,” a film she describes as born out of grit, hope and some of the hardest chapters of her life. Festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM called it a perfect opening, saying, “Full Plate isn’t just a film, it’s a testament to why Indian cinema matters. It entertains, challenges and heals.”

The festival began with a buzzing press conference attended by special guest Khushboo Sundar, Consul General of India in Sydney Dr. S. Janakiraman and Tannishtha Chatterjee herself, each sharing their excitement about Indian cinema taking centre stage once again in Australia. “This festival is about celebrating

Khushboo Sundar officially opened the celebrations, adding star power and warmth to a night that felt both glamorous and heartfelt. From that moment, it was clear that the Indian Film Festival of Sydney was back where it belonged, bringing communities together through the power of stories.

the vastness of India’s storytelling,” said Mitu Bhowmick Lange. “Fifteen films in twelve languages, each offering a slice of our diverse culture. Cinema is best experienced together, and we want people to come out and feel that magic on the big screen.”

And the audiences did just that. The opening night was a full house, the red carpet buzzing with filmmakers, artists and fans who came together to celebrate the rebirth of the festival.

Across its three-day run, the festival presented more than fifteen films spanning genres, languages and moods, each offering a glimpse into the heart of contemporary India. From thought-provoking dramas and independent gems to nostalgic crowd favourites, the line-up captured the diversity of Indian cinema in all its glory. It was a true cinematic feast for everyone, from passionate cinephiles to those simply in love with a good story.

One of the most memorable moments came with a packed screening of Sholay. Decades after its release, the iconic film still drew crowds like no other. The theatre erupted in cheers with every familiar line, and the original ending left audiences stunned. The screening reminded everyone why Sholay remains a timeless classic. Some films do not age, they simply

remind us why we fell in love with cinema in the first place.

The closing night brought the perfect finale with Songs of Forgotten Trees, directed by Anuparna Roy, which recently earned her the prestigious Orizzonti Award for Best Director at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival. Making its Australian premiere at IFFS, the film follows two migrant women in Mumbai, Thooya,

an aspiring actress surviving through charm and wit, and Swetha, a corporate worker, whose unlikely bond blossoms amid the chaos of city life. As their lives intertwine, the story becomes a tender exploration of survival, selfhood and unexpected kinship. Starring Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel, the film captivated audiences with its poetic storytelling and emotional depth. Festival director Mitu Lange called Songs of Forgotten Trees “a cinematic poem that resonates universally yet speaks deeply to our cultural roots.” She added, “We could not have imagined a more perfect closing for our

11th anniversary edition. This film embodies everything we at IFFS stand for, cinema that moves, provokes and heals.”

Founded in 2010, the Indian Film Festival of Sydney has grown into one of the city’s most loved cultural events, bridging India’s cinematic brilliance with Australia’s multicultural audience. More than just a film showcase, the festival is a platform for cultural exchange, creativity and collaboration, bringing together filmmakers, storytellers and dreamers who share a love for the art of cinema.

This year’s edition marked a special milestone as the festival celebrated its 11th anniversary

and its first full-scale return since the pandemic. From the red carpet glamour of opening night to the thought-provoking discussions that followed each screening, the festival reaffirmed its place as a space where stories transcend borders and cultures connect through shared emotion.

As the curtains came down on another unforgettable edition, one thing was clear: the Indian Film Festival of Sydney is not just back, it is brighter, bolder and more beautiful than ever. With its celebration of storytelling, colour and community, the festival once again

DUSSHERA EXHBITION BY ETHNIC BAZAAR

Granville was buzzing with festive energy on Saturday, 20 September, as Ethnic Bazaar Australia brought the Dussehra Exhibition 2025 to The Granville Centre — a one-stop celebration of shopping, food, and culture. The exhibition proved to be a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from dazzling sarees, lehengas, and designer blouses to men’s and kids’ wear, jewellery, arts,

and home décor,all at prices that didn’t break the bank. Shoppers were thrilled to find the perfect pieces to match their festive attire.

What stood out this year was the mix of people, it not just the South Asian community but also non-subcontinent locals, who came along with their ethnic friends and happily joined in the Diwali and Dussehra shopping spirit. The event became a true reflection of

Happy Diwali

May this Festival of Lights bring warmth, happiness, and togetherness to you and your loved ones.

Our Diwali Festival of Lights Competition is closing soon! Whether you live in a house or apartment, light up your home and showcase the spirit of Diwali in our City. Submit photos of your dazzling Diwali displays for your chance to win. T&C’s apply.

Sydney’s multicultural heartbeat.

The highlight of the day? The food stalls. From pani puri, egg rolls, kebabs, biryani to masala chai, the aroma of authentic street food had queues lined up, and smiles all

around. Kids had their share of fun too, with face painting and toy stalls adding to the family-friendly vibe.

The exhibition also recognised the backbone of the event, its vendors, sponsors, and supporters. Certificates of appreciation were presented by Director Urmi of Ethnic Bazaar Australia, with Chief Guest Julia Finn, MP, representing NSW Premier Chris Minns, applauding the initiative. Ms. Finn praised the event for empowering small businesses, especially women entrepreneurs, and strengthening cultural connections.

Speaking about the success, organiser Urmi said: “Our aim was to create a platform where community, culture, and commerce meet — and seeing families, friends, and even new faces enjoying themselves was truly rewarding.

We’ll be back next year, even bigger and brighter!”

The Dussehra Exhibition 2025 was more than a market. It was a festival in itself, uniting communities, celebrating traditions, and kicking off the season of joy with colour, flavour, and togetherness.

40 Hours, One Mission:

Sydney Welcomes the Woman Behind the World’s First All-Female Lunar Mission

GLOBAL ALL-FEMALE LUNAR MISSION GAINS MOMENTUM IN AUSTRALIA DURING INTERNATIONAL ASTRONAUTICAL CONGRESS

By:

Sydney, Australia – In just 40 hours on Australian soil, Dr. Srimathy Kesan — pioneering Founder of Mission ShakthiSAT and Space Kidz India — ignited conversations across politics, education, business, and community about a bold vision: the world’s first lunar mission led entirely by girls. Representing India at the In-Space Pavilion of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC), Dr. Kesan brought with her a message of courage, innovation, and possibility. Through her organisation, Space Kidz India, she has already launched 27 student-led missions. Now, with ShakthiSAT, she is taking the next leap — empowering thousands of young girls worldwide to dream of the moon.

Inspiring Engagements Across Australia

With a packed itinerary curated by Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships and Ambassador of Australia, Dr. Kesan met with leaders spanning government, diplomacy, education, and community. Key meetings included:

4State MP for Riverstone Hon. Warren Kirby

4Consul General of Mauritius Dr. Roseline Yardin

4Councillor for Toongabbie Mr. Susai

Benjamin

4Afghanistan Ambassador Ms. Mujghan Tahery

4Fiji Ambassador Ms. Sharina Shanaz

4Educational leaders, startups, business clubs, students, and the IAF delegation

The highlight of the visit came when Australia’s Federal Minister for Science & Technology, Hon. Tim Ayres, was personally briefed on the mission. Minister Ayres extended his best wishes to the thousands of girls worldwide taking part in this groundbreaking project. During the visit, two MoUs were also signed — one with Australian startup Space Angel and another with a UK-based startup — strengthening the mission’s international collaborations.

Empowering Girls Globally – From Villages to Space

So far, Mission ShakthiSAT has engaged 7,000 girls worldwide. The Sydney visit marked the launch of the mission’s second round of outreach, this time with a focus on indigenous, refugee, and rural girls. Its core aim remains clear: to give young women “wings to fly, and most importantly, the courage to dream big.” In Australia, the mission has partnered with the RAISE ME Foundation, which works to empower communities in STEM, Robotics, AI, Media, and Entrepreneurship. This collaboration will ensure Australian girls, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, are part of the space revolution. The mission will also involve the Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy, under the leadership of Melissa Tipo, Partnerships, Industry and

Engagement Manager at CSIRO, who is championing this partnership.

Global Recognition Ahead

Dr. Kesan’s global efforts will continue with a high-profile meeting with Her Excellency, President of India Hon. Droupadi Murmu on October 1, 2025. The discussions will further elevate ShakthiSAT’s profile and provide greater clarity on hosting participation from 108 countries in India.

Voices from the Mission

Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder of Mission ShakthiSAT:

“Every young girl deserves the chance to see herself in space. Through this mission, we are building not just satellites, but courage and confidence in thousands of futures.”

Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships:

“Wearing two hats — as Global Head of Partnerships and as an Australian Ambassador — gives me both a micro and macro lens for this mission. Australia’s multicultural fabric equips me with the perspective to carry ShakthiSAT’s vision to 108 nations worldwide.”

About Mission ShakthiSAT

Mission ShakthiSAT is the world’s first all-female lunar mission, spearheaded by Space Kidz India. With over 7,000 girls already engaged from across 108 countries, the initiative is redefining the future of STEM by empowering young women to become scientists, engineers, and space leaders of tomorrow.

Wishing you a happy and safe Diwali. May this Festival of Lights be full of joy, laughter and new beginnings.

FROM THE

MAYOR, COUNCILLORS AND STAFF OF CAMDEN COUNCIL

KARWACHAUTH MEHENDI NIGHT 2025

By: Satinder Chawla

Karwachauth Mehendi Night 2025 -organised by the dynamic trio Supreet, Vishu, and Simran under the banner of SVS Events, lit up Melbourne with vibrant colours, music, and celebration. Held at the elegant Pearl Venue, Craigieburn, the evening was graced by our esteemed Guests of Honour Cr.Shivali Chatley, city of Greater Bendigo, Iwan Walter Parliament Secretary for Multicultural Affairs from Labour

Party & Evan Mulholland, MP, Liberal Party. The event featured spectacular highlights including the Mrs. Karwachauth Contest, Bhangra performances, Kids Fashion Walk, Live Singing, and beautiful Henna Stalls. Guests enjoyed shopping from diverse boutique stalls and savoured the festive spirit. With immense support from our valued sponsors and partners, the event beautifully captured the true essence of love, tradition, and togetherness.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Strengthens Strategic Ties During Sydney Visit

The Indian Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, visited Sydney on October 9, 2025, marking a historic milestone as the first official visit by an Indian Defence Minister to Australia in over a decade. The visit underscored the deepening defense and strategic partnership between India and Australia, reflecting their shared vision for a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

During his visit, Minister Singh and The Deputy PM and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP held extensive discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation across multiple areas of defence engagement. The two nations signed several key agreements, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Submarine Search and Rescue Cooperation and the Terms of Reference for Joint Staff Talks, both designed to strengthen operational coordination and mutual preparedness.

The visit also carried significant symbolic

and diplomatic weight. Minister Singh paid tribute to Australia’s fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the Australian War Memorial and offered prayers at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, highlighting the strong cultural and community connections between the two nations.

A major highlight of the trip was the Defence Industry Round Table, which brought together senior officials and leading industry representatives from

both countries to explore opportunities for collaboration in defence manufacturing, research, and emerging technologies. This initiative aims to build a more selfreliant and innovative defense ecosystem, aligning closely with India’s “Make in India” and Australia’s “Defence Industry Capability” agendas.

Minister also addressed the Indian Diaspora at an event organised by the Consulate General of India, Sydney.

Coinciding with the fifth anniversary of the India–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the visit marked a significant step forward in elevating bilateral defense cooperation to new heights. It reinforced both nations’ commitment to working together for regional peace, resilience, and mutual growth.

NEW DEFENCE AGREEMENTS TO DEEPEN INDIA-AUSTRALIA STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

INDIA AND AUSTRALIA ARE GEARING UP TO SIGN THREE LANDMARK DEFENCE AGREEMENTS THAT SIGNAL A CLEAR STEP TOWARD TIGHTER COOPERATION IN THE INDO-PACIFIC.

These pacts are expected to focus on information sharing, maritime security, and joint military activities, marking yet another milestone in their growing strategic friendship.

The agreements are set to be inked during Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s official visit to Australia.The timing is symbolic: it falls almost on the fifth anniversary of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), highlighting how far bilateral ties have come and how much deeper both sides intend to go.

What These Agreements Mean in Practice

Information Sharing will likely involve refined protocols for real-time exchange of intelligence and maritime data-crucial in light of regional challenges around undersea threats, piracy, and naval domain awareness. India and Australia have already been working together through mechanisms like the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region.

Maritime Security cooperation will be boosted as both countries aim to enhance surveillance, joint patrols, and coordinated responses across sea lanes, especially

given the increasing strategic competition in the region. Previous dialogues have prioritized maritime domain awareness as a shared concern.

The third pillar, Joint Defence Activities, likely encompasses expanded joint military exercises, reciprocal logistics support, and possibly new training and exchange programs for officers. Recent talks (like the 9th Defence Policy Talks) underscore interoperability as a priority across air, land, and sea.

Why This Moves Matters

This is more than defence paperwork-it reflects a deeper convergence of strategic interests. With shifting global dynamics, both nations are seeking to reinforce stability in the Indo-Pacific and ensure their security frameworks can respond to emergent threats.

For India, aligning with Australia strengthens its partnerships beyond the South Asian region. For Australia, the agreements bolster its role in regional

security and demonstrate commitment to partnerships that go beyond traditional alliances.

Also, by formalizing information sharing and operations together, both countries set precedence for better crisis response, better surveillance, and faster coordination in times of regional instability.

What’s Next

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected in Australia soon, where leadership from both sides will sign the agreements. Following that, attention will turn to implementation, refining how cooperation happens on the ground-joint missions, technology sharing, surveillance platforms, etc.

There will also likely be a push to involve private defence industries, tech firms, and research units to support these new agreements. The India-Australia cooperation has already included defence science & technology, and this next step could deepen that.

“BLOOD@YOUR SERVICE”

HOSTS 4TH BLOOD DONATION CAMP IN ADELAIDE: A CONTINUING MISSION OF HOPE AND LIFE

“BLOOD@YOUR SERVICE” by Jay Patel , man behind this amazing initiative proudly organized its 4th Blood Donation Camp in Adelaide, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to saving lives and spreading hope through the power of giving. turnout,

with 43 dedicated individuals registering as blood donors, and a remarkable 31 units of blood successfully collected. This collective effort is a testament to the community’s compassion and unwavering support for this life-saving cause. Every drop counts — and every donation made is a chance to offer someone a second lease on life. As the organization continues its mission, events like these highlight the impact of unity, generosity, and the enduring spirit of giving.

Let’s continue this journey together — because giving blood is not just a donation, it’s a gift of life.

On behalf of the South Australian Government, we wish all South Australians a

Happy Diwali

Together, may we all celebrate and embrace the values of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

In these moments of reflection, we want to convey our deep appreciation for your community’s valued contributions to the state, both culturally and economically. We a stronger and more inclusive state thanks to you and your community.

We thank you for sharing the spirit and traditions of Diwali with the wider South Australian community, contributing to the richness of our state’s cultural identity.

CELEBRATION DURGA PUJA IN ADELAIDE

DURGA PUJA, ALSO KNOWN AS DURGOTSAVA OR SHARADOTSAVA, IS ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT AND WIDELY CELEBRATED FESTIVALS IN EASTERN INDIA.

Editor: Daljeet Bakshi

This vibrant festival spans several days and is marked by devotion, elaborate rituals, and cultural festivities. In Adelaide, the Bengali community came together to recreate the spirit of this grand celebration, bringing a piece of home to the heart of South Australia.

The festival honours Goddess Durga and

commemorates her divine triumph over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. As described in Hindu scriptures, Durga’s battle with Mahishasura represents the empowerment of righteousness over negativity. The festival also carries agricultural significance, coinciding with the post-monsoon harvest and aligning with Navaratri and Dussehra festivities celebrated across India.

Days of Devotion and Celebration :

The multi-day event featured a range of religious and cultural activities, including:

4Daily Puja rituals with traditional chanting and offerings

4Sindoor Khela, a vibrant ritual symbolizing the strength and unity of womanhood

4Cultural performances, including classical

and contemporary dance, music, and drama

4Community gatherings and festive meals, fostering togetherness and joy

Organised by Bengalis in Adelaide group, Committee team Ms. Rima Rakshit , Mrs. Madhumita Chowdhuri

4Mr. Suman Chatterjee

4Mr. Angshuman Banerjee

4Ms. Nilanjana Sarkar

Hon Jing Lee MLC along with Mr. Eddie Liew graced the occasion.

This year’s Durga Puja in Adelaide was not only a spiritual observance but also a cultural showcase—celebrating tradition, artistry, and the deep-rooted values of unity and resilience within the Indian diaspora.

OFBJP SOUTH AUSTRALIA

HOSTS BLOOD AND FOOD

DONATION DRIVES IN HONOUR OF INDIA PM

MODI’S 75TH BIRTHDAY

In a heartfelt tribute to the 75th birthday of India’s Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) South Australia chapter organized two impactful community service initiatives — a Blood Donation Camp and a Food Donation Drive for the Aboriginal community.

By aligning the initiatives with this significant

milestone, the OFBJP South Australia team aimed to not only celebrate a visionary leader but also contribute meaningfully to the local community.

The Blood Donation Camp, organized in collaboration with local healthcare partners, witnessed enthusiastic participation from volunteers and community members.

In a parallel initiative, the team also carried out a Food Donation Drive targeting vulnerable Aboriginal communities in South Australia. Essential food supplies and care packages were distributed, reflecting the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “the world is one family.” The effort underscored the importance of cultural respect, reconciliation, and social equity.

The success of these initiatives was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the OFBJP South Australia team, including Chirag Chaudhary , Nigam Patel, Gagan Sharma, Adireddy , Rajan Katakum , Puja Parekh, Nishreen.

HONOURING THE HEROES OF SARAGARHI

– NOW ETCHED IN HISTORY

FLORAL TRIBUTES -PLAQUE AT THE PATHWAY OF HONOUR – ADELAIDE

Apowerful tribute took place in Adelaide, as the Guru Nanak Society of Australia and Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Adelaide came together to commemorate the 21 brave Sikh soldiers who fought valiantly in the Battle of Saragarhi (1897).

A plaque installed at the prestigious Pathway of Honour — a place reserved for remembering those who made

extraordinary contributions to service and sacrifice. This marks a historic moment for the Sikh community and all Australians who value courage, unity, and remembrance.

Let us continue to share their story and keep their spirit alive.

MEDICARE MENTAL HEALTH

IS HERE FOR YOU DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, DISABILITY, AND AGING

Whether you’re seeking help, looking for advice, or supporting someone you care about, our experienced counsellors are here to listen. You can call for free from anywhere in Australia on 1800 595 212 between 8:30 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

For more information, visit the Department of Health, Disability, and Aging’s website - National Phone Service | Medicare Mental Health

OZASIA ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Step into India’s cultural past and future in 2079!

Editor: Daljeet Bakshi

Experience surreal visuals brought to life through 3D gaming, AI-generated art, and motion-captured dance.

4Elsewhere in India: Return to Technopia | Murthovic and Thiruda

425 Oct ‘25

4The Lab at ILA

Murthovic and Thiruda

Elsewhere in India

4Return to Technopia

4Music

In a speculative Indo-futuristic world where global cultures teeter on the brink of extinction, electro-classical Indian music collides with surreal visuals created through a fusion of 3D video games, AI-generated art and motion-captured dance.

Imagined by transmedia artists, Murthovic and Thiruda, Elsewhere in India: Return to Technopia is an immersive nightclub experience drawing on their extensive archive

exploring cultural heritage, digital technology, and speculative futures, featuring collaborations with some of Adelaide’s most exciting South Asian artists.

SPARE BEDROOMS

AND THE HOUSING CRISIS: WHY INCENTIVES WORK BETTER THAN PUNISHMENT

Writer- Ishita Sethi (Barrister)

Australia’s spare bedrooms could be part of the solution to our housing nightmare – if only politicians would stop treating homeowners like the enemy. While an increasing number of Australian families sleep in cars, young Australians give up on ever owning a home, and renters are priced out, millions of spare bedrooms sit unused across the country. The response from policymakers? Threaten homeowners with punitive taxes rather than reward them for opening their doors.

This backwards thinking perfectly captures

everything wrong with Australia’s approach to tax policy: punish success, ignore solutions, and somehow expect different results.

The government’s urge to weaponise tax against the family home doesn’t just shatter people’s sense of security, its politically dangerous Effective tax policy should help solve the housing crisis, not create new victims of it. Smart policy builds stronger communities and keeps families together, rather than fracturing neighbourhoods and forcing cash-poor retirees from homes they’ve spent decades paying off.

Take the pensioner sitting in a four-bedroom home; watching the housing crisis unfold while three spare rooms gather dust. Under current rules, renting those rooms means pension cuts through brutal income tests – effectively punishing them for trying to help. It is a situation that is completely detached from the realities of ordinary Australians.

The solution is blindingly obvious: flip the incentives

At a time of mounting cost-of-living pressures, pensioners who are already struggling to make ends meet, should be free to rent out spare bedroom without risking cuts to the pension they depend on. More broadly, targeted income tax offsets and land tax exemptions should be introduced to encourage homeowners to offer spare rooms in their primary homes for rent.

The best tax policy doesn’t squeeze harder – it enables more. More housing, more stability, more generosity, not more government revenue. If politicians are serious about tackling this crisis, they need to stop threatening homeowners and start incentivising them to be part of the solution.

The choice is simple: reward solutions or punish success. Only one approach actually increases housing supply and incentivises lifelong hardwork and generosity.

SHAPING OUR FUTURE TOGETHER:

The Courage to Cooperate in an Age of Division

By Chris Dwyer

As the United Nations approaches its 80th anniversary, the world finds itself in a paradox. We have never been more connected – nor more divided. The technologies that enable instant communication have also accelerated disinformation. The prosperity that once promised stability now sits uneasily beside widening inequality. And the institutions built to safeguard peace and cooperation are struggling

to operate in a world that often seems to have lost faith in both.

Yet perhaps the problem is not the failure of those institutions, but our failure to remember why they exist.One standout initiative, the Who Do You Barrack For vodcast, blends humour, education, and community voices to introduce new audiences to the excitement of Australian football. It’s an example of how storytelling and laughter can make the game approachable and fun for those discovering it for the first time.

Beyond AFL Desi, the League continues to deepen its commitment to multicultural inclusion through initiatives such as the Cultural Diversity Action Plan, launched in 2025. This plan focuses on understanding

community needs, breaking down barriers to participation, and ensuring the game reflects Australia’s rich diversity.

The UN was born not from idealism alone, but from necessity. In 1945, humanity emerged from the wreckage of global war and declared, with unprecedented conviction, that cooperation was the only sustainable defence against catastrophe. It was an act of pragmatic hope: a recognition that peace is not the natural state of affairs, but a project that must be continuously built, protected and renewed.

Eighty years on, that project is being tested again. The world faces not a single crisis but a convergence of them: war, climate, inequality, displacement, mistrust. What binds these challenges together is not only their scale, but the reality that none can be

solved in isolation.

If there was ever a time to rediscover the courage to cooperate, it is now.

Beyond Cynicism: Rediscovering the Purpose of the UN

It has become fashionable to dismiss the UN as slow, bureaucratic or powerless. Yet these criticisms often mistake the symptom for the cause. The UN is not a government; it cannot compel action by decree. It is a mirror of its members – a reflection of our collective political will, or lack thereof.

When nations act with purpose, the UN becomes a powerful engine for progress. When they retreat into self-interest, it becomes paralysed. The measure of its success, then, is not found in its flaws, but in the willingness of the world to make use of it.

The truth is that much of what holds the modern world together quietly bears the UN’s imprint: from humanitarian law to vaccination programs, peacekeeping operations, refugee protection, climate frameworks, and the Sustainable Development Goals. These achievements were not accidents of history, they were the result of cooperation that held, even when trust was fragile.

The question before us is whether we still believe in that kind of cooperation – and if not, what we think will replace it.

The Fragility of Discourse

Our capacity to solve shared problems depends on our ability to talk to one another. Yet in too many places – from parliaments to social media feeds –conversation has been replaced by combat. We shout past each other rather than listen. Complexity is met with slogans; disagreement with contempt. This erosion of discourse has consequences far beyond politics. It weakens the social trust that underpins democracy and fuels the suspicion that makes global collaboration impossible. The more divided we become, the less able we are to act – even on the issues that threaten us all.

Rebuilding that trust requires more than civility; it demands humility – a recognition that no single ideology, nation, or generation holds all the answers. Dialogue, when done well, is not an act of weakness but of strength. It is the foundation upon which peace, policy, and progress are built.

Leadership in a Time of Interdependence

Leadership today is no longer defined by dominance, but by interdependence. The most pressing challenges of our

time – climate change, migration, artificial intelligence, global health, the integrity of information – cross borders faster than our laws or politics can keep up.

In this context, leadership means something different: the ability to convene, to bridge divides, to hold space for cooperation when it is most inconvenient to do so. It means shifting from the zerosum logic of competition to the shared logic of survival.

This is not easy leadership. It requires patience in the face of populism and vision in the face of fear. But it is precisely this kind of leadership that the coming decade will demand: from governments, businesses, educators and citizens alike.

A Moment for Renewal

That is why the upcoming UN at 80: Shaping Our Future Together Conference and Gala Dinner (22 October 2025, Sheraton Grand Hotel, Sydney) is more than a commemoration. It is a moment of renewal. It is a call for Australia to re-engage with the ideals and practical realities of multilateralism in an age that too

often dismisses it.

The conference will gather diplomats, academics, human rights advocates, sustainability experts, business leaders and youth voices to explore how Australia can contribute to the UN’s next chapter across four vital pillars: Peace and Security, Human Rights, Sustainable Development, and Global Citizenship.

But its significance lies less in who will speak than in who will listen – and what they might do next. It is an opportunity to move beyond rhetoric and toward shared purpose: to ask what peace looks like in a digital world, how human rights can survive in an age of automation, and what sustainability truly means when prosperity itself must be redefined.

This is not about defending the UN as an institution, but about defending cooperation as a principle. The alternative – fragmentation, cynicism, disengagement – is not a path to peace but a recipe for decline.

The Courage to Hope

Hope can seem naïve in an age of cynicism. Yet history tells us that progress has always depended on it. The abolition of slavery, the expansion of rights, the fall of

apartheid, the creation of the UN itself – all began as hopes ridiculed by those who preferred the comfort of despair.

To hope is not to ignore the world’s challenges, but to confront them with the belief that they can be changed. Hope is courage in motion, and courage is contagious.

Eighty years ago, the UN was founded on that conviction: that humanity, for all its flaws, could learn from its own suffering and choose cooperation over chaos. That belief is not obsolete; it is unfinished.

An Invitation to Engage

The UN at 80: Shaping Our Future

Together Conference is an invitation – to reimagine what global citizenship means, to rekindle the discipline of dialogue, and to contribute, in whatever way we can, to the renewal of cooperation.

Whether you attend as a policymaker, business leader, educator, volunteer, or simply a concerned citizen, your presence matters. Because shaping our future together is not the task of governments alone – it is the responsibility of all who believe that humanity’s best days still lie ahead.

The world we leave behind will depend not only on what we criticise, but on what we choose to build.

And the work of building, of listening, engaging, and imagining together, begins here.

Learn more or register: unaansw.org. au/conference

DUSSEHRA MELA BY PREM PRAKASH MANDAL MANDIR- MELBOURNE

By: Satinder Chawla

The 3rd annual Dussehra Mela, hosted by Prem Prakash Mandal Mandir, was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Mernda Recreation Reserve, VIC. The fair radiated vibrant energy, bringing the community together through cultural performances by local groups, delicious food stalls, clothing, jewelry, and children’s rides.

Highlights included the magnificent fireworks and the symbolic burning of effigies, reflecting the festival’s timeless message of good triumphing over evil Dignitaries such as Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, Hon. Andrew Giles, Hon. Bronwyn Halfpenny, Lily D’Ambrosio, Lauren Kathage, and community leaders joined, alongside Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, and Nepali friends , making it a truly inclusive celebration.

A CELEBRATION OF FOOD, CULTURE,

urryfest month is finally here — and in 2025, Woolgoolga’s beloved festival returned with triple the fun after last year’s weather forced a cancellation. This year, three days of festivities brought together locals and visitors from near and far to celebrate food, music, dance, and the town’s unique Punjabi

The main festival day, held on Saturday 27 September, transformed the beach reserve and main street into a vibrant hub of colour, music, and, of course, curry. Festivalgoers enjoyed an array of curries and ethnic foods from around the world, while also immersing themselves in cultural experiences. The bhangra and giddha dancers wowed the crowds, dholi drummers set the rhythm for

impromptu dance sessions, and popup entertainers roamed the streets, adding spontaneous fun.

For culinary enthusiasts, the cooking zone offered live demonstrations from local chefs, along with stalls selling spices and ingredients for homecooked curries. Visitors could try their hand at turban tying, explore the Indian bazaar, and take home unique gifts

CURRYFEST 2025:

CULTURE, AND COMMUNITY

and souvenirs.

Families were a central focus, with kids entering free and enjoying a dedicated kids’ zone, ice cream, treats, and roaming performers. The festival even included a Bollywood movie night on Friday 26 September, a free community event thanks to Optus, where families brought picnic rugs and chairs to enjoy a film on the beach. A

IN WOOLGOOLGA

wellness event, Yoga and Chai, also debuted on Sunday morning, offering a serene start to the day thanks to Clarence Property.

A Festival Rooted in History and Community

Curryfest began in 2006 when a group of local residents — both Sikh and nonSikh — came together with a simple idea: celebrate Woolgoolga’s unique Punjabi heritage through food, culture, and community. Initially small markets held in April, the festival eventually moved to September, the region’s driest month, allowing the event to grow into the massive celebration it is today.

Over the years, Curryfest has become Woolgoolga’s signature festival, reflecting the town’s identity, where the skyline is marked by two Sikh temples and the community’s Punjabi roots shine. This year, the event drew around 8,000 attendees, including families of Punjabi, European, and other heritage — a testament to the festival’s enduring multicultural appeal.

“The bhangra and giddha dancers were superb, and seeing so many local community members in turbans

and saris was truly colourful,” shared the organisers. “Watching children of different backgrounds participate in Cricket NSW activities was a special moment this year.”

Cultural Highlights Beyond the Curry

While curry is the star of the show, the festival also celebrates music, dance, art, and wellness. Visitors enjoyed dance workshops, henna tattoos, and live drumming performances. The Indian bazaar offered shopping and cultural experiences, while the turbantying station provided a hands-on connection to Sikh traditions.

Community engagement extends beyond entertainment. Curryfest supports local organisations such as the Red Cross, Nippers Junior Surf Lifesaving, and the Visitor Information Centre, generating tourism and economic benefits for the town.

Attendees spend an average of five days in the area, contributing millions to the local economy through accommodation, dining, and retail.

The Punjabi/Indian Community in Woolgoolga

The festival is deeply intertwined

with Woolgoolga’s Indian–Punjabi community, whose history in the region dates back to World War II. Early settlers worked on banana farms, gradually establishing families and businesses, and today the community thrives across industries, from farming to professional services.

Two Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) continue to serve as cultural and spiritual hubs, welcoming visitors, providing meals, and hosting educational events. The community preserves traditional practices,

including turbans, saris, and Punjabi language education, while younger generations maintain a connection to their heritage through regular trips to India and participation in local cultural events.

Curryfest itself relies heavily on community participation. Local Punjabi families run food stalls, perform in dance troupes, and advise the organising committee. The festival also enjoys support from political representatives, including NSW MP Gurmesh Singh, who officially opens

the event each year.

The Future of Curryfest

The festival continues to evolve. Plans for the 20th anniversary in 2026 include lead-up events, restaurant nights with Indian cuisine, repeat Bollywood movie nights, and potentially a Bollywood cabaret. Organisers hope to expand participation from curry vendors to reduce queues and further enrich the festival experience.

Curryfest is more than a celebration of food; it is a showcase of multiculturalism, community spirit, and regional tourism. It demonstrates how cultural heritage can shape a town’s identity, strengthen social cohesion, and drive economic growth — all while having fun.

As Woolgoolga looks to the future, Curryfest remains a vibrant reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together to celebrate heritage, creativity, and connection.

Learn more about Curryfest 2025 and upcoming events: https:// www.curryfest.com.au

‘GLIMPSES OF KAMBARAMAYANAM’

The English version of Tamil Kamba Ramayanam was released in Sydney last week.

Dr Chandrika Subramaniyan , lawyer and writer has chosen 108 songs from the Kamban’s Ramayanam and translated them into English, transliteration, Tamil meaning and English meaning for each song. The book was titled as ‘Glimpses of Kambaramayanam.’ Kamban ,is a versatile Tamil poet

of 7th century ,who has produced 10,600 songs following Valmiki’d Sanskrit ramayanam in creating it in Tamil.

The event was presided by the time was scholar from Sydney Mr Thiru Thirunanda Kumar. The book release was part of celebrations associated with honouring and praising

Dr Hugh MCDERMOTT MP for prospect, released the book and the first copy was received by Dr Janaki Raman Consulate General of Indian consulate in Sydney .

In addition to the book release there was a book exhibition from local authors. The annual award for service to Tamil language was given by Hugh McDermott to Mrs Bhuvaneswari Purushottaman, a long standing Tamil teacher from Homebush Tamil school.

The event included additional book releases written by two sydney-based writers. Mr Vijay Singh released a book on ‘ Siddha way of life’ and a poetic contribution of Mr Kumar was also released at the event. The book was reviewed by a Tamil youngster Akalavan Sriskandarajan.

WORLD MALAYALEE COUNCIL, SYDNEY ONAM CELEBRATIONS BRINGS A TOUCH OF KERALA’S THE COMMUNITY

Come September and this small state in the southern part of India spruces itself

By: Poornima Menon

The state gets ready to celebrate Onam, Kerala’s most important cultural celebration. The festival that is a part of the cultural repertoire of every Malayalee is a harmonious blend of myth and reality. Marking the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali, Onam transcends religious and social boundaries and unites Malayalees

across the globe in a spirit of joy, gratitude and camaraderie. It is a celebration of goodness, a celebration of giving, a celebration of plenty and a celebration of communities coming together.

The vibrancy of Onam was experienced by all who attended the celebrations at

SYDNEY PROVINCE KERALA’S SPIRIT TO

itself up for fun and festivities.

Bowman Hall organised by World Malayalee Council, Sydney Province. It brought together families and friends in a colourful display of tradition, unity, and joy. Community members belonging to the multicultural fabric of Sydney came together in the traditional attire, with most women draped in the elegant kasavu sarees and most men in mundu.

The celebrations began with the highlight for many, the grand Onasadya—a traditional vegetarian feast that was served on make-believe banana leaves, offering an array of dishes including sambar, avial, thoran, and two types of payasams. The Sadhya was relished by all with lip smacking delight.

The venue was adorned with pookalam, an intricate floral design that is a signature of Onam and the air was filled with the sounds of traditional music and laughter.

The cultural programs began with the lighting of the lamp by the Consul General of India, Dr S Janakiraman, Mrs Janakiraman, Julia Finn, member for Granville and other dignitaries.

The Consul General of India in his speech spoke about the essence of Onam and the importance of staying connected. Mr Warren Kirby, member for Riverstone and co-chair Parliamentary Friends of India also addressed the audience.

Mr Babu Varhese, the President of the organisation spoke about its ethos, highlighting its past achievements and future goals.

After the initial speeches and felicitations, the program began with Lekshmi Sujith’s Lekshmi Saraswathi School of Dance’s presentation of “Madhavam’, a soulful Keralanadanam piece offered in devotion to Lord Maha Vishnu.

Hamsa Venkat’s students from Samskriti School of Dance unfolded on stage the story of Onam and the gave the audience a glimpse of the festivities that are a part of this celebration.

This included the role of Vuishnu’s Vamana avatar, King Mahabali’s return, the Thiruvathirakali dance, Pulikali (tiger dance), and the Vallamkali (the boat race).

A beautiful musical collage of Onam songs was rendered by team Jhalak, comprising of Jyothi, Lakshmi and Kavitha. This was followed by a celebration of the temple and folk art of Kerala presented by Renju Gopakumar and team.

This included the aspects of Thalapoli, Muthukuda and Thamburatti. The performances included Mohiniattam and a dance dedicated to Goddess Kali. The highlight of this segment, the one

that captivated and mesmerised the non-Malayalees in the audience was the Theyyam performance to the sounds of the Chenda. The finale was the Chenda Melam by Indoz Rythms, the first Chenda ensemble in Australia.

It was a befitting finish to a very satisfying Onam celebration. The cultural event was emceed with great aplomb by Rakhee Chandra-Smythe and Pavan Parameswar. For the team at World Malayalee Council, Sydney Province the event was not just about celebration, but about keeping cultural ties alive. Onam is a reminder of our roots and our values of unity, equality, and gratitude.

For us living far from our roots and from Kerala, Onam carries a special meaning - it bridges generations and connects us to our homeland. As the celebrations drew to a close, the spirit of Onam lingered on.

The celebrations are a reminder that traditions, when shared with warmth and with the community, continue to thrive far beyond their place of origin. And the festival’s message of harmony and prosperity continues to resonate, wherever it is celebrated.

WORLD PHARMACISTS DAY 2025 –

ADELAIDE | “THINK HEALTH, THINK PHARMACIST” HONOURING THE HEART OF HEALTHCARE

Written By: Daljeet Bakshi

World Pharmacists Day is a global observance that highlights the essential role pharmacists play in delivering quality healthcare services and promoting community well-being.

In celebration of this important occasion, the Hon. Chris Picton MP, Minister for Health, and the Hon. Tung Ngo MLC hosted a special evening recognising the contributions of pharmacists across South Australia. The event included a tour of Parliament House and an award ceremony to honour outstanding service within the profession.

Hon. Jing Lee MLC and Mr. Eddie Liew

extended their heartfelt gratitude to community pharmacists, acknowledging their unwavering support in safeguarding the health of all Australians. During their visit to Aussie Care Hub Midnight Pharmacy, they commended Irfan, Sobia , Hassan, and Sami for their exemplary service and warm hospitality.

Nadia Clancy MP, Member for Elder, marked the day by visiting TerryWhite Chemmart Cumberland, where she praised the dedication and invaluable

contributions of local pharmacists.

Olivia Savvas MP, Member for Newland, visited TerryWhite Chemmart Paragon and shared her appreciation for the commitment and professionalism of pharmacists. She recognised their critical role in enhancing community health and providing accessible healthcare solutions.

Award-winning pharmacists Irfan Hashmi, Sobia Irfan Hashmi, and reflected on the evolving role of

pharmacy professionals, stating: “Pharmacists are at the heart of healthcare—providing expert guidance and personalised support to improve the health of our communities.”

Their team continues to deliver high-quality care through services such as:

4Medication management and Webster packing

4Vaccinations and immunisations

4UTI consultations and provision of absence from work certificates

4Health checks and expert everyday health advice

A sincere thank you goes out to all pharmacists and pharmacy staff for their dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment to serving the public—today and every day.

PM Rambuka celebrates Fiji Day with the Fijina Diaspora in Sydney

Liverpool’s Woodward Park in south-western Sydney was a sea of blue and white as thousands of Fijians and well-wishers came together to celebrate Fiji’s 55th Independence Day yesterday. The annual celebration brought together Fijians from all walks of life, proudly waving the Fiji flag, and sharing the warmth and unity that define our people.

Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka officiated the event where he expressed his appreciation to the Fijian community for their continued love and contribution to the country they still call home.

“Even though you are far from Fiji, your hearts remain close,” he said. “Through your remittances, your families, and your prayers, you continue to strengthen our nation. Vinaka vakalevu for your contributions back home, it goes a long way to supporting the economy back home, particularly, our communities.

“We are most grateful to you, to your employers and those who assist you here. “In the first four months of this year, I am told that $448.5 million came from you to your relatives and communities back in Fiji. You have lifted the lives of so many people back home. Thank you all very much for your contributions through

remittances.” The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to encourage Fijians in Australia to continue being good citizens and role models in their communities.

“Be proud of who you are. Uphold the values that make us Fijians and that is respect, humility, and compassion. Wherever you are, live in a way that makes others see the best of Fiji in you.” Prime Minister Rabuka also expressed Fiji’s gratitude to the Government and people of Australia for their friendship and support under the Vuvale Partnership. “Australia has been a true friend to Fiji. Our Vuvale Partnership shows the strength of our shared values and the deep connection between our peoples,” he said. “We thank Australia for walking alongside us as part of our Pacific family.”

Sharing the significance of Fiji’s national day, the Prime Minister reminded everyone that independence was both a gift and a responsibility. “Fiji Day is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come, and to remind ourselves of the unity and faith that carried us through. Let’s continue to build a future filled with hope, peace, and love for one another and progress for all.”

The Sydney celebration featured traditional dances, cultural performances, food stalls, amusement rides and a rugby tournament that brought the crowd to life. Fijians from across Australia also took advantage of the services offered by the Fiji Government roadshow team, which included representatives from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Ministry of Immigration, the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and other relevant agencies.

RANG-E-SUKHAN:

A CELEBRATION OF URDU

On Saturday, 6 September 2025, Parramatta Town Hall came alive with warmth, laughter, and verse as the Indian in partnership with LEAD Education, hosted Rang-e-Sukhan — a grand mushaira celebrating the enduring beauty

By Taufeeq Sheikh

Over 300 guests attended this vibrant evening, enjoying a rich tapestry of voices that showcased why Urdu poetry continues to resonate across generations in Australia. The event was generously supported by Dr Abdul Noor, CEO of LEAD Education, and Mr Abbas Raza Alvi, President of ICSOA, who ensured that poetry enthusiasts could attend as invited guests rather than through ticketed entry.

A Night of Words That Cross Boundaries

The highlight of the evening was MP Imran Pratapgarhi (Rajya Sabha, India), whose presence on stage captivated

RANG-E-SUKHAN: URDU POETRY

Indian Crescent Society of Australia (ICSOA), beauty and social impact of Urdu poetry.

the audience. His recitations — blending social commentary, historical reflection, and heartfelt lyricism — earned multiple standing ovations. “This was a uniquely organised and truly successful event here in Sydney,” he said, congratulating Dr Noor and Mr Alvi for their leadership. “The symbolic success of this mushaira lies in how it began with emerging voices like Gagan Deep and Shweta, and concluded with my recitation — reflecting the unity in diversity that India represents to the world.”

Local poets added depth and resonance to the program, including Gagan Deep, Shweta Sharma, Bhawna Kunwar, Asma Aftab, Wahab Siddiqui, Virat Nehru, Syed Altaf Zubair, Shuja Atif, guest poet Omprakash Yeti, and senior poets Abbas Raza Alvi and Prof. Rajeshwari Prasad Mathur. Together, they delivered an evening that moved, inspired, and unified the audience. Many of the younger voices — such as Gagan Deep

and Shweta — emerged from Safety Pin, the open mic platform by Crossover Stories, which continues to nurture fresh poetic talent in Sydney.

Honouring Guests and Community Leaders

Rang-e-Sukhan welcomed senior community leaders and elected representatives, including Stephen Bali MP, Warren Kirby MP, Councillor Susai Benjamin, Councillor Moninder Singh, Councillor Sameer Pandey, Nadeem Ahmed, and Manoj Sheoran. Though Councillor Sameer Pandey could not stay for the felicitation, he played a crucial role in facilitating Mr Pratapgarhi’s visit to the Local Government Chambers in Parramatta and his meetup with Australian lawmakers.

Three senior community stalwarts — Dr Sikander Khan, Mr Sulaiman Zafar Siddiqui, and Mr Syed Kamil Hussain Kazmi — were honoured for their lifelong

volunteers of ICSOA like Amrin Khan, Sarwat Zahra & Iram Rasheed.The evening’s flow was expertly guided by

Fasih Khan, Emcee and Secretary of ICSOA, whose energy and eloquence kept the program vibrant throughout.

The Team Behind the Night Rang-e-Sukhan’s success was the result of meticulous planning and teamwork. Special thanks to Mr Abbas Raza Alvi for shaping the artistic vision, and to Dr Abdul Noor Aftab and the LEAD Education team, led by Kinza Abbasi, for their unwavering support. Contributions from the DAWA Team led by Mohammad Mustafa Mohiuddin, Mohammad Masood (Spice Hub) for catering, and the ICSOA IT team led by Syed Jafar, were crucial.

The backbone of the evening was ICSOA’s board and volunteer network. Alongside myself, Iram Rasheed, Fasih Khan, Abbas Chelat, Siddique Panwala, and Syed Jafar ensured meticulous planning and smooth execution under Mr Alvi’s leadership. A large volunteer

roster managed hospitality, logistics, and front-of-house services seamlessly, making the night a truly memorable experience for all.

A Phenomenal Evening and a Call to Keep the Conversation Going From the opening lines to the final applause, Rang-e-Sukhan celebrated language, identity, and shared humanity. The evening reaffirmed the power of cultural platforms in strengthening community bonds and amplifying the voices of poets who cherish both tradition and contemporary relevance.

My heartfelt gratitude goes to every poet, dignitary, volunteer, sponsor, partner, and patron who contributed to this night. We look forward to carrying forward the spirit of Rang-e-Sukhan, continuing to celebrate Urdu poetry and fostering connections that inspire future generations.

NATIONAL HINDI DIWAS

Marked in Australia by ILASA Inc.

Hindi Diwas is celebrated every year on 14 September to commemorate the day Hindi was adopted as one of India’s official languages. Across the globe, it has grown into more than a linguistic celebration, it is a cultural bridge that connects generations and communities.

In Australia, the Indian Literary and Art Society of Australia (ILASA) Inc. has been leading these efforts, hosting national-level competitions and events that bring together children, adults, and families to honor the enduring spirit of Hindi.

This year, ILASA once again organized its much-anticipated poetry and story competition, attracting around 85 participants ranging in age from 5 to 80. Entries poured in from Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm within the Indian diaspora.

The poetry competition was divided into

three categories—children aged 5–8, children aged 9–13, and teenagers aged 14–18— while adults took part in a story recitation competition, submitting recorded video presentations. The panels of judges brought both expertise and sensitivity to the task: Dr. Shailja Chaturvedi, Harihar Jha, Shipra Tewani, and Richa Raj judged the poetry entries, while acclaimed Australian theatre artists Vipul Vyas, Jyotsna Jyoti, and Sanjay Khanna evaluated the story recitations.

Prizes worth approximately $1,500 were distributed, with 19 awards presented across categories. First, second, and third place winners received $100, $75, and $50 respectively, along with several $40 consolation prizes, generously supported by sponsors.

In the Adult category, the first to third prize winners were Sudhashu Vachaspati and Kishor Nangrani from Canberra, and Vipin Gaindhar from Melbourne. A consolation prize was awarded to Namita Matani from Sydney.

In the 14–18 category, the first to third prize winners were Shaunak Chatterjee from Melbourne, Ipshita Kumar from Sydney, and Siddhi Agarwal and Pranshu Mistry from Melbourne.

The 9–13 category received 35 entries, with Myra Kumar winning first prize, Anvay Thakur second, and Labh Kataria third. Consolation prizes were awarded to Arjun Pardeshi and Ruby Lin.

In the 5–8 category, the winners were Avya Kohli from Perth, Dhawani Jain and Prahar from Sydney, and Vratant Gupta from Melbourne.

The quality of entries this year was especially impressive. Both children and adults demonstrated not only remarkable creativity but also a profound connection to the Hindi language and its literature.

A special note of appreciation goes to the parents, whose encouragement ensured their children embraced Hindi, keeping alive the language of their country of origin while growing up abroad.

In the adult category alone, 23 participants presented outstanding stories. The results were proudly announced in the presence of Anil Joshi, President of Vaishvik Parivar.

The prize money was sponsored by Ekal Vidyalaya, Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan Australia, Reliance

Financial Solutions and MNB. Reflecting on the event, ILASA’s founder, senior writer and teacher Rekha Rajvanshi, emphasized that such competitions spark children’s interest in Hindi literature while allowing adults to rediscover the joy of storytelling.

Overall, the event stood out as a vibrant initiative, uniting Hindi lovers across the country and igniting fresh enthusiasm for the language. More than a competition, it was a celebration of heritage, identity, and the unbreakable bond between language and culture.

ICSOA’S INTERFAITH & HARMONY EVENT 2025 AT NSW PARLIAMENT STRENGTHENS DIALOGUE

By Taufeeq Sheikh

The Indian Crescent Society of Australia (ICSOA) marked its annual Interfaith & Harmony event on 18 September 2025 at the historic Stanley Preston Room in the NSW Parliament House. This year’s theme, “Interfaith Solidarity in Conflict”, resonated strongly with the diverse gathering of faith leaders, politicians, community advocates, and members of civil society.

The event began with a warm welcome by Fasih Khan, Secretary of ICSOA and the evening’s emcee, who guided the program with warmth and eloquence, ensuring a seamless flow that kept the audience engaged throughout.

President Abbas Raza Alvi then delivered the opening address, reminding the audience of ICSOA’s founding vision. Recognised repeatedly throughout the evening for his lifelong dedication to interfaith dialogue and cultural cohesion, Mr Alvi called for governments to re-

examine priorities: “Instead of channeling vast budgets into defence, we must invest in human development—education, health, and social cohesion.” His leadership was acknowledged by several speakers and dignitaries, reflecting the respect he commands across community and political circles.

Throughout the evening, speakers acknowledged the visionary leadership of ICSOA President Abbas Raza Alvi, whose lifelong work in promoting dialogue and understanding across communities

has made this gathering one of the most anticipated events of the year.

This year’s Keynote Presenter was Steve Killelea AM, philanthropist and founder of the Institute for Economics and Peace, who I had the honour to introduce. He laid out the global dimensions of peace and conflict. Following that, I introduced our Keynote Speaker Craig Foster AM, broadcaster, human rights advocate, and former Socceroos captain, whose powerful words underscored the urgency of building genuine solidarity across divides.

As event coordinator, I paused before introducing the keynote segment to reflect on the significance of the venue itself. The Stanley Preston Room, with its long-standing history in shaping democratic debate in NSW, offered a fitting backdrop. I also acknowledged the tireless contributions of women volunteers of ICSOA, weaving their role into the broader history of democracy — a reminder that many of democracy’s solutions emerged only after the inclusion of women’s voices.

The evening also featured strong participation from leaders in government. Politicians who addressed the gathering:

4Hon. Steve Kamper, Minister for Multiculturalism, who recognised ICSOA’s role in fostering dialogue.

4Hon. Jihad Dib (ALP), who highlighted the importance of unity in times of division.

4Hon. Mark Coure (LP), who stressed bipartisan support for multicultural initiatives.

4Hon. David Shoebridge (Greens), who underlined human rights as a shared

together the evening’s themes of solidarity, recognition, and shared responsibility.

In every speech and exchange, the event reinforced ICSOA’s role as a unifying platform for dialogue, hope, and community action. Under the guidance of Abbas Raza Alvi and the dedication of its members, ICSOA continues to lead by example in advancing interfaith understanding at a time when it is most needed.

foundation for peace.

Among public speakers, Lorraine Finlay, Human Rights Commissioner, emphasised the role of human rights in sustaining peace and dignity for all. Peter Doukas, Chair of the Federation of Ethnic Communities Council of Australia (FECCA), reinforced the significance of multicultural organisations in strengthening the nation’s social fabric.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of three Excellence Awards, celebrating individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to community cohesion. Coordination of this important segment was led with care and dedication by Iram, whose behindthe-scenes efforts ensured the awards ceremony unfolded smoothly.

4Dr Abdul Noor, introduced by Sarwat, was honoured for his outstanding vision and commitment to community service.

4Father Dave Smith, introduced by Shweta, received recognition for his tireless advocacy for justice and compassion.

4Hindus for Human Rights organisation was celebrated for their work in human rights and interfaith solidarity, received by Dr Shanti Raman and Nandini Sen, introduced by Farida Alvi.

All three award recipients were introduced by ICSOA’s women volunteers and felicitated by Joseph La Posta, CEO of Multicultural NSW, who presented the awards to honour their achievements in front of an audience deeply moved by their work.

The program closed with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks from Siddique Panwala, tying

Looking ahead, ICSOA has two upcoming events lined up. On 12th October, the community is invited to a BBQ Fundraiser at Bunnings Marsden Park, promising a day of food, fun, and fellowship. Following that, on 20th October, ICSOA will host an informative session on the impacts of gambling and promoting responsible practices, continuing its commitment to community awareness and support.

Diwali & Garba Night A Celebration of Unity, Culture, and Community

It was September 14th, 2025 when something exciting and long awaited was going

By Riju B

Not an organisation, not a professional group, not a group of experienced event planners, but a group of four friends, with a will power to do something, with a passion for making their dreams come true, was the power behind it. The “Diwali and Garba Night 2025” was celebrated at West Pennant Hills Valley Community Centre, 42 Hill Road, West Pennant Hills in the evening.

“Embracing multiculturalism is the essence of Indian values.

with a strong belief in this we wanted to extend the essence of a celebration to all the parts of India and Diwali coming in next few weeks is the most appropriate occasion to start this”, says Riju Bhargava.

Hence the idea of having a musical and dance evening to welcome Diwali where everyone has something to enjoy and dance. Not just limited to a part or region but respecting the music from all across India…an event for entire community where India comes

together. As the doors opened, the selected stall holders began setting up their products, and a team of young volunteers took over the administration and security responsibilities.

The organisers Riju Bhargava, Neetika Bhargava, Hariharan Vellingiri and Lavanya Ravikumar welcomed the guests. The vibrant Diwali backdrop was setup by Decorama, courtesy Vrushali Vaidya and it became one of the hotspots of the event.

The display of handmade paintings by V-Creations, from a 78 year old artist welcomed the guests as they entered only to meet the vibrant display of products by Paniga Craftz, Blissful Wishes, Coobee, Bedazzled Jewellery and Books. There was a complimentary entertainment for children by Monty Entertainer.

Prestigious organisations like India Club, Sydney Connexions, Indian Literary and Arts Society of Australia (ILASA), Womeyn, Hindu Federation Of Australia and Binno8ive Property Solutions provided huge support to this multicultural Diwali celebration with music.

After acknowledging the traditional owners of the land, the lamp lighting was done by Councillor Sreeni Pillamarri, Rekha Rajvanshi, Shubha Kumar,

Pankaj Tangri, Narendra Kulkarni and Dr Naveen Shukla with chants performance by Shobha

Night 2025: Community Spirit

going to be unfolded.

Ingleshwar. This was followed by a thanks giving to the VIP guests and supporters who stood by the event.

Emcee Sonika Madan engaged the audience from the beginning and called on the spot prize winners, followed by the DJ starting the music on which every guest tapped rhythmically.

During a short break the stage was shared with ILASA for prize distribution to the Hindi Day winners who were available in Sydney. Anu Shivaram and Dr Shailaja Chaturvedi were present on this occasion.

The music resumed only to finish with a raffle draw, the prizes for which were sponsored by C3 Photography and Video, Womeyn

and India Club. The food stalls by Mani Malar foodhouse and the snack counter managed by teenagers provided a variety of mouth watering options to the guests.

Despite challenges, it turned out to be super successful just because we believed in our tribe and that everything will go ahead well. We cannot express our gratitude to everyone for their love and support, without which we couldn’t have pulled it.

The final say is, “You don’t have to be perfectionist to make something successful. Just feel it within heart and go with the flow .”

CASTLE GROUP’S

South-West Family Fun Day a RecordBreaking Success

Castle Group, through its philanthropic arm, the Perera Foundation, says it has set a benchmark for community engagement in South-West Sydney after its largest family fun day to date. The event, held on Sunday, September 21 at the developer’s Bloomfield residential project at Austral, attracted more than 5000 people from across the region with queues stretching around the block.

A highlight of the event was Castle Group’s auction of three residential lots, including a 300sqm parcel that sold for $747,000-equating to $2490 per square metre-a record for the developer. The line wrapped around the block but the fun was worth it for families at Castle Group’s Bloomfield celebration. Group chief executive Ritchie Perera said the event celebrated the growth of SouthWest Sydney communities.

“The fun day was about celebrating the growth and vibrancy of communities in this region, and a way for Castle Group to give back to our community,” Perera said. Local MP Nathan Hagarty said the size of the crowd “shows how much this community wants and needs more community events and spaces”.

The day included free food stalls serving more than 6000 meals, live entertainment, market stalls, kids’ activities and a showcase of community initiatives. City of Parramatta councillor Sameer Pandey, Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty, Castle Group group chief executive Ritchie Perera and family, Ferguson Brown Insurance Brokers managing director Andrew

and Chinese Building Association of NSW chief executive and founder Carson Gao at the fun day. Attendees included Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue chief executive Adam Leto.

Attendees also had an early look at Castle Group’s latest project, The Canopy at Austral, a 500-plus-lot subdivision expected to deliver a major new residential community in the region.

Perera said the event reflected Castle Group’s ongoing commitment to creating communities of scale, quality and opportunity. “We were thrilled to be able to bring people together and remain committed to delivering communities that shape the future of South-West Sydney.”

The founder of the Sydney Children’s Festival, Thuat Nguyen AM, has bowed out at the opening of yesterday’s festival after 27 years.

CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL LEGEND STEPS DOWN

By Warren Duncan

He said the 42 festivals his team had organised had “brought joy to countless children and families and helped build harmony in the community”.

“Every successful journey has a moment when the torch must be passed. And today, I am filled with pride and excitement to announce that our organisation is entering a vibrant new chapter. It is time for new energy and a fresh perspective to lead us forward”, he said. In front of a long lineup of senior Federal and State Politicians, community leaders and thousands of community members at the 2025 festival in Playford Park, Padstow, Mr Nguyen introduced his successor, Tuan Dang, whom he described as “a remarkable individual”.

“He is a passionate advocate

for children, a visionary leader, and someone who I know will continue to build on our legacy with great care and dedication”, he said. Addressing the festival crowd for the first time as President, Tuan Dang said: “Few individuals embody the spirit of service and resilience as profoundly as Mr Thuat Van Nguyen AM, the founding president of the Children’s Festival Organisation and a towering figure in multicultural community building across Australia.

“He is more than a historical figure – he is the reason I believe in the power of community. From my earliest days

in Scouts to my current role leading the Children’s Festival, his example has shaped my values, my leadership, and my heart. His humility, vision, and tireless dedication continue to inspire everything I do. “Since 1999, this festival has grown into a cherished tradition, and for over 26 years, the Children’s Festival Organisation has proudly contributed to creating spaces where joy, diversity, and community spirit thrive.

“We deeply appreciate the continued support from all levels of government, as well as our business and community sponsors. Your partnership ensures we can keep serving children for years to come— because they are our future, and investing in them means investing in a stronger, more inclusive society”, he said. Meanwhile the Federal Minister

for Education Jason Clare told the crowd: “Australia is made up of people from countries all around the world. People of different backgrounds are all living here in harmony and that isn’t always easy. It takes work. It takes leadership and, Thuat, you are a guiding light for all of us. Thank you for your leadership over 27 years.”

He was supported by the State Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib, representing the Premier of NSW, Chris Minns, who also praised Mr Nguyen for his contribution to community harmony. He told the crowd that the Children’s Festival “over all these years has brought us all together in all our diversity. We all love the Australian story of diversity and the part that all of us

play. But especially, what we see here most of all is the children.”

Hundreds of children of many different backgrounds spent the day presenting cultural performances on stage, creating craft works, enjoying rides and eating delicious food. Many others dressed up in traditional costumes to take part

Caring for those gone

Jainesh Jogia, director and founder of Agnee Funeral is doing yeoman service to mankind

Can you tell us about your background. “I hail from Suva, Fiji, where I was born to my parents, Kanji Bhai and Prabha Jogia, who are First Generation Indians rooted in Fiji. Raised in the rich traditions of Hinduism, I found religion to be an integral part of life’s fabric from an early age.

My educational journey took an intriguing turn as I attended Catholic schools, exposing me to diverse perspectives within our religiously varied community. Growing up, my family fostered an environment of openness and hospitality, welcoming all into our home without hesitation.

Beginning my formal education at the University of the South Pacific and later completing it at the Australian Catholic University, I furthered my studies with postgraduate work at Newcastle University.

It was during this time that my path diverged into the technology industry, where I dedicated myself until 2010 when I ventured into entrepreneurship in an entirely different sector.

Just before the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself drawn to an industry that had always held a mysterious allure for me – the funeral industry. Contemplating the journey between a person’s passing and their solemn presence in a adorned casket before their loved ones had long intrigued me.

Through the most challenging of times, I gained firsthand insight into the inner workings of this industry. Armed with this knowledge and experience, I founded Agnee Funeral Services.

I view my life’s journey as a tapestry woven with lessons, each one preparing me to offer the utmost care and support to grieving families. My purpose, my dharma, is to ease their burden during their darkest hours.”

“What prompted the establishment of Agnee Funeral Services?

Foremost, I firmly believe that funerals within our Indian community should be conducted by individuals who intimately understand the intricacies and significance of our traditions.

This belief stems from a deep-rooted conviction that only members of our own community can truly appreciate the nuances involved in honoring our departed

Furthermore, I recognized a glaring need for someone from my generation to step forward and fulfill this essential role, particularly in a predominantly Western society where our cultural traditions may be overlooked or misunderstood by younger generations.

This perspective is particularly poignant given that many individuals within my age

group (ranging from 30 to 60 years old) still have elderly parents or relatives amongst us.

I am personally driven by the importance of reassuring our elders that there is someone within their own community who comprehends the correct procedures and cultural requirements surrounding funerary rites. It is paramount that they feel a sense of comfort and confidence knowing that their traditions will be respected and upheld with dignity.

Moreover, having been closely involved in ushering numerous individuals into the care of various funeral service providers, I have witnessed firsthand the behind-the-scenes processes and the conditions of various mortuaries and storage facilities. Regrettably, there is often much to be desired in terms of standards and care.

I am proud to affirm that Agnee Funeral Services operates in partnership with impeccably maintained facilities, where stringent protocols are rigorously adhered to ensure the utmost sanctity and respect for the deceased. I am confident that these facilities provide the level of dignity and

care that I would personally desire when my time inevitably comes.

At Agnee Funeral Services, our guiding principle is simple yet profound: to deliver cremation services with the utmost ethical consideration and compassionate care.”

“What distinguishes Agnee Funeral Services from other providers? Our commitment extends beyond merely attending to the deceased’s needs as they transition to our facility for their final rites. What truly sets us apart is the personalized care and meticulous attention to detail we extend to the grieving family throughout the entire process.

I personally guide the family with compassion and empathy, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.”

“Allow me to guide you through the process of arranging a funeral with Agnee:

Upon receiving authorization from the family to represent them, we respectfully bring the departed loved one to our impeccably maintained facility. Here, they

are allocated a private resting space where they remain under our attentive care for the ensuing days.

During this period, we meticulously handle all legal documentation necessary for a dignified cremation ceremony, affording the family the opportunity to witness the final journey of their cherished one.

Meanwhile, I personally visit the family at their residence to collaboratively organize the details of the final day, ensuring it reflects the essence and wishes of their loved one.

Throughout the entire process, our approach is characterized by unwavering care, comfort, and support. I am dedicated to being there for the family every step of the way, offering my personal assistance and guidance.”

“To ensure that we deliver personalized and compassionate services to families during their time of need, we follow a comprehensive approach:

1. Personalized Consultation: Following

the initial contact, I personally meet with the family to discuss their preferences and plan the funeral service. This allows us to tailor the arrangements to ensure they can bid their loved one a meaningful farewell.

2. Collaborative Approach: I work closely with the family and their religious leaders, such as their family pundit, to ensure that cultural and religious customs are respectfully observed. This collaborative effort ensures that the funeral service honors the traditions and beliefs of the deceased and their family.

3. Cultural Sensitivity: Drawing from my experience in both Hindu and Western funeral practices, I bring a deep understanding of cultural nuances to our services. This knowledge, coupled with compassion and precision, enables us to conduct the final rites in accordance with Hindu customs, respecting every aspect of the tradition.

By combining personalized consultation, collaborative teamwork, and cultural sensitivity, we strive to provide families with a compassionate and dignified farewell for their loved ones.”

“At Agnee Funeral Services, we offer a range of unique and customized services to honor the individuality of your loved one:

1. Customized Coffins: We specialize in crafting personalized coffins tailored to reflect the unique personality and interests of the deceased. From incorporating favorite rugby team colors to depicting significant imagery from their life journey, we can create coffins that truly celebrate their essence. Additionally, our coffins can be custom-sized and shaped to suit individual preferences. For instance, we once designed a coffin resembling an oversized suitcase for a seasoned traveler.

2. Varied Hearse Options: We provide a choice between black or white hearses to complement the style and preferences of the family.

3. Custom Flower Arrangements: Our team can create bespoke floral arrangements to adorn the funeral proceedings, adding a personal touch to the ceremony.

4. Personalized Memorial Cards: We offer personalized memorial cards, allowing families to commemorate their loved one with a lasting keepsake.

These unique and customized services are designed to ensure that every aspect of the funeral honors the individuality and legacy of your beloved family member.”

“At Agnee Funeral Services, we understand the importance of ensuring our services remain accessible and affordable for families during their time of need.

While we recognize that funerals can be as elaborate and intricate as the family desires, ultimately serving as a celebration of the life lived, we also prioritize affordability.

Our commitment extends to providing services that align with the economic capabilities of each family, while still upholding the traditional Hindu customs and practices.

During the consultation phase, we transparently discuss all available options with the family, ensuring they are fully informed about the costs involved. This approach allows families to make informed decisions that accommodate their financial circumstances while honoring their loved one in a meaningful and dignified manner.”

The NSNA Service.

“The NSNA (No Service No Attendance) Cremation Service represents a novel and costeffective approach to funerals, emerging in recent years as an alternative option. Designed primarily for families who do not adhere to religious beliefs or traditions, this service foregoes formal ceremonies.

The process involves transporting the deceased to our facilities, where necessary documentation is completed before cremation occurs without ceremony. It’s essential to note that families are not notified of the cremation timing and cannot select a specific time for the cremation.

Following cremation, the ashes are delivered to the family, allowing them the flexibility to hold a memorial at a time and place of their choosing, providing an opportunity to honor the life of their loved one in their own way.”

How do you handle cultural and religious

differences when it comes to funeral services?

“As someone from a Hindu background, I have an inherent understanding of the cultural and religious nuances that shape funeral traditions. This shared heritage with most of my clients provides me with a unique advantage in comprehending their needs and desires.

Recognizing that every family is distinct, with its own set of customs and rituals, I prioritize honoring these individual traditions with meticulous attention to detail. By ensuring that each ritual is performed in accordance with the family’s wishes, I strive to provide a funeral service that respects and reflects their cultural and religious beliefs.”

Share some of the challenges that you’ve faced while running Agnee Funeral Services, and how you’ve overcome them?

“One of the primary challenges we encounter at Agnee Funeral Services is ensuring the accuracy of documentation from stakeholders. Even the smallest error in paperwork, such as a misplaced letter or number, can jeopardize the cremation process.

To address this challenge, I’ve implemented a meticulous system for data management. Every piece of information we collect undergoes thorough double-checking before being processed. This system has proven invaluable, as it has helped us avoid any unsuccessful ceremonies thus far.”

What is the future for Agnee Funeral Services?

“At Agnee Funeral Services, I have a clear vision for the future that revolves around making the journey easier for both the deceased and their families. With several initiatives in the pipeline, rest assured that each event and detail planned is aimed at providing comfort and support during difficult times.

My ultimate aim is to serve my community with the highest level of respect and dignity. I firmly believe that assisting my fellow human beings during their moments of grief is my calling and duty.

It is truly an honor to fulfill this role, and I am committed to continuously striving for excellence in serving those in need.”

INTERNATIONAL AYURVEDA DAY

CELEBRATED WITH GRAND EXPO AND CONFERENCE IN SYDNEY

THE INTERNATIONAL AYURVEDA DAY 2025 WAS CELEBRATED WITH GREAT ENTHUSIASM AND GLOBAL PARTICIPATION AT A VIBRANT ONE-DAY AYURVEDA EXPO AND INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE HELD AT THE TRIPLE CROWN BALLROOM, RYDGES HOTEL PARRAMATTA.

The event was organised by the Australasian Association of Ayurveda Inc., in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, Sydney, and supported by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. It brought together renowned Ayurvedic experts, health professionals,

dignitaries, and community leaders with the aim of promoting holistic wellness and raising global awareness of Ayurveda.

Throughout the day, the conference featured insightful keynote addresses and interactive workshops covering a wide range

of topics. Among the distinguished speakers were Dr. Pradeep Kumar, who spoke on Panchakarma Therapy, Dilip Ghosh, who outlined TGA regulations, Dr. Ashok Wali, who explored Panchabhautik Chikitsa and innovations in Ayurveda, and Amit Karalkar, who highlighted the link between mental health and meditation. Workshop presenters included Dr. Rafeena Kidavintavida, who discussed hormonal imbalance and Ayurveda; Dr. Anisha, who focused on gut health; Dr. Karuna Jaiswal, who spoke on insulin resistance and Ayurvedic nutrition; Dr. Neha Soni, who presented on mental health and activating the vagus nerve; Dr. Rekha Parameswaran Nair, who demonstrated Marma therapy; Supriya Ruparelia, who introduced daily routines in Ayurveda; Sreekala Kannan, who connected Ayurveda with medical astrology; and Dr. Tim Carr, who shared practical tips for optimising brain health.

The event was graced by the

presence of several community leaders and dignitaries, including Clr Sreeni Pillamarri, Clr Sameer Pandey, Clr Barbara Ward, Clr Sandy Reddy, Clr Jubandeep Singh and Clr Pardeep Pathi. Special messages of support were also received, with Hon. Andrew Charlton MP sharing a video message, while the Premier of New South Wales, Hon. Chris Minns, sent a congratulatory letter. In his message, the Premier praised Ayurveda’s role in supporting health and wellbeing and acknowledged the importance of multicultural events in strengthening the social fabric of the state. He noted that events like this showcase how people from diverse backgrounds come together to share culture, build community, and contribute to the vibrancy of New South Wales.

The Expo and Conference was spearheaded by Dr. Naveen Shukla, President of the Australasian Association of Ayurveda, whose leadership and dedication were instrumental in bringing this

large-scale event to life. Reflecting on the day, Dr. Shukla emphasised that Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old science, remains profoundly relevant in today’s world. He explained that the conference aimed to bridge traditional knowledge with modern health practices while fostering stronger community bonds across cultures.

Running from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, the day offered participants a rich experience that blended learning, healing, and cultural connection. The combination of hands-on workshops, interactive sessions, and a trade expo showcasing Ayurvedic products, therapies, and services created a truly immersive atmosphere.

The successful celebration of International Ayurveda Day 2025 not only highlighted the growing global impact of Ayurveda but also reinforced its potential to contribute significantly to integrative and preventative healthcare systems in Australia and beyond.

NEW DEAL OPENS

INDIA’S GROWING ORGANIC MARKET

TO AUSTRALIAN PRODUCERS

AUSTRALIAN ORGANIC FARMERS AND FOOD PRODUCERS ARE SET TO GAIN UNPRECEDENTED ACCESS TO ONE OF THE WORLD’S FASTESTGROWING FOOD MARKETS, FOLLOWING A LANDMARK AGREEMENT BETWEEN AUSTRALIA AND INDIA.

The Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on organics equivalence, signed this week, ensures that both countries will now recognise each other’s organic certification systems for a defined range of products. For Australian exporters, this means that products certified under the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce can be marketed as organic in India without the need for additional certification.

A Booming Market for Organics

India’s organic food market, valued at nearly $2.9 billion in 2024, is forecast to grow by 20 percent annually, reaching an estimated $16.5 billion by 2033. With India predicted to become the world’s third-largest

economy by 2028, the agreement positions Australian producers to take advantage of rising demand for healthy, sustainable, and premiumquality foods.

Eligible Australian exports under the new arrangement include:

4Unprocessed plant products (excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops)

4Processed foods made from one or more plant-based ingredients

4Organic wine

The inclusion of organic wine is especially notable, marking the first time Australian vintners will enjoy guaranteed access to India’s organic beverage sector.

Strengthening Trade and Food Safety

Alongside the MRA, the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Food Safety, enabling collaboration on:

4Food regulation

4International food standards

4Emerging food safety issues

4This partnership reinforces consumer confidence while supporting long-term trade stability.

Voices of Support

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins MP said the agreement represents a significant breakthrough for Australian producers.

“Our Government’s focus on nurturing relationships with partners like India has provided our farmers and

producers with the best platform for continued growth. This new agreement represents a significant opportunity for Australian organic producers, who will gain increased access to the Indian organic market.”

She also highlighted the strength of the sector’s global reputation:

“India’s organic food market is expected to grow significantly, driven by an increasing interest in health benefits and rising investment in sustainable agriculture.”

Jackie Brian, CEO of Australian Organic Limited, welcomed the agreement as a milestone:

“This equivalency arrangement with India is a clear and powerful signal to our nation’s organic producers and processors that their commitment to world-class organic standards is being formally recognised on the global stage. By providing streamlined access to a key emerging market, this deal not only cuts red tape but also reinforces the value and integrity of Australian organic certification.”

Building on Strong Trade Ties

The signing of the MRA fulfils a commitment made under the IndiaAustralia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) of April 2022 and builds on the Comprehensive

urban centres where demand for organics is surging. For Indian consumers, it brings greater access to trusted, high-quality Australian produce — from fresh plant-based foods to premium wines.

Between July 2022 and June 2025, the Albanese Labor Government has delivered 231 agricultural market access achievements, including:

4Opening 29 new markets

4Protecting 81 markets from trade threats

4Restoring 17 lost markets

4Making 104 improvements to existing markets

Benefits for Farmers and Consumers

For Australian producers, this deal opens the door to millions of Indian consumers, especially in fast-growing

The agreement underscores the global rise of organics, driven by health, sustainability, and food safety considerations, and strengthens Australia’s reputation as a reliable supplier of clean, premium-quality food.

First Home Buyers Now Eligible for Uncapped 5% Deposits

The scheme — delivered months ahead of schedule — allows buyers to purchase a property with just a 5% deposit, with the government guaranteeing part of the loan. This means first home buyers can avoid costly Lenders Mortgage Insurance, cut years off the time it takes to save, and move from renting to home ownership sooner.

What the Change Means for Buyers

Until now, eligibility for the scheme was limited. With today’s expansion, there are:

4No income caps

4No caps on places

4Higher property price caps aligned with today’s market

The impact is significant. With the median home price at $844,000, a 5% deposit equals $42,200. That same amount once covered a 20% deposit back in 2002 — highlighting the scale of today’s affordability challenges.

Under the expanded scheme:

4A first home buyer in Sydney can purchase a $1 million home with a $50,000 deposit. They could save up to 10 years of deposit saving, avoid about $42,000 in mortgage

FROM TODAY, ALL FIRST HOME BUYERS IN AUSTRALIA CAN SECURE THEIR DREAM OF HOME OWNERSHIP SOONER, WITH THE ALBANESE GOVERNMENT’S EXPANDED 5% DEPOSIT SCHEME NOW AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE.

insurance, and redirect up to $350,000 into their own loan instead of rent.

4A first home buyer in Bendigo could buy a $600,000 home with just a $30,000 deposit. They could save up to 6 years of deposit saving, avoid around $25,000 in mortgage insurance, and redirect about $126,000 into their mortgage instead of rent.

Since its launch, more than 185,000 Australians have already been supported into home ownership through this scheme.

Part of a $43 Billion Housing Agenda

The 5% deposit expansion is one piece of the Albanese Government’s $43 billion housing agenda, which also includes:

4Building more homes across the country

4Backing first home buyers

4Giving renters a better deal

Leadership Speaks Out

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the expansion reflects his government’s commitment to young Australians.

“We’re making it easier for young people and first home buyers to achieve the dream of owning a home. From today, the 5% deposit scheme will be available for all first home buyers, meaning more Australians can get into their own home sooner.”

Minister for Housing Clare O’Neil added that the change addresses the

challenges facing the next generation.

“From today, every first home buyer can purchase their own home with just a 5% deposit. That will cut the average time it takes to save a deposit from 11 years down to just 2 or 3. It’s really tough for young people trying to get into the housing market. Expanding this scheme means thousands more Australians can stop paying off someone else’s mortgage and start building equity in their own home.”

Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley, MP also added, we want to help young people, and first home buyers achieve the dream of home ownership sooner.

“From 1st October 2025, all first home buyers in Werriwa will be able to buy a home of their own with a deposit of just 5 per cent, while single parents only need a 2% deposit.

“This scheme will cut years off the time it takes to save for a deposit, and you won’t have to pay a single dollar in Mortgage Insurance.”

Where to Learn More

Full details on eligibility and the application process are available at the Housing Australia website.

From Queues to Clicks:

India to Roll Out e-Arrival Cards and Fast-Track Immigration from October 1

BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2025, FOREIGN NATIONALS ARRIVING IN INDIA WILL NO LONGER BE REQUIRED TO FILL OUT PAPER DISEMBARKATION CARDS.

Instead, the government is introducing a digital e-Arrival Card, part of a broader push to modernise immigration and reduce waiting times at airports. The move signals a transition from decades of form-filling and long queues to a clickand-go digital process.

The End of Paperwork at Immigration For decades, the arrival experience in India began with fumbling for pens, filling in forms, and waiting in long lines at immigration counters. From October, this will change:

4e-Arrival Card: Foreign nationals must submit the form online up to 72 hours before arrival via the Indian Visa Online portal or the SuSwagatam mobile app.

4Details required: Passport information, nationality, contact details, purpose of visit, and address in India.

4No uploads needed: Only the form must be completed; supporting documents are not required.

4Confirmation: Travelers will receive a digital acknowledgment, which they should print and carry.

A transition period of up to six months will see physical cards remain available, though the government strongly encourages use of the digital option for faster clearance.

Exemptions continue for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, who do not need to complete arrival cards.

Why This Change Matters

The reform is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ effort to:

4Cut down airport delays

4Integrate traveler information into India’s Immigration Management Systems for real-time monitoring

4Strengthen border management while improving passenger experience

Officials describe it as a small but meaningful step to make India’s airports modern, efficient, and welcoming, reflecting the country’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

The Fast Track Immigration–Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)

Alongside the e-Arrival Card, India is expanding its FTI-TTP, described as India’s answer to the US Global Entry or the UK’s Registered Traveller scheme.

How it works:

4Registered passengers use

automated e-gates instead of manual counters.

4The system verifies passport, boarding pass, and biometrics (fingerprints and facial recognition) in under 30 seconds.

4Once authenticated, the gate opens automatically, completing immigration clearance.

Current rollout:

4Initially launched in Delhi (2024), the programme now covers 13 airports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and five new airports: Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram, Trichy, Kozhikode, and Amritsar.

4Expansion plans include 21 airports in the first phase, with Navi Mumbai and Jewar among the upcoming hubs.

Who can use it:

4Currently: Indian citizens and OCI cardholders

Bigger Picture:

Registration is free of cost (unlike similar global programmes), valid for five years or until passport expiry, and requires biometrics either at an FRRO or during first use at the airport.

So far, around 300,000 travellers have registered, with 265,000 already using the system.

India’s

Travel Boom

India’s international travel is surging. Between 2014 and 2024:

4Outbound Indian travellers grew from 35.4 million to 61.2 million (a 73% rise)

4Foreign arrivals increased from 15.3 million to nearly 20 million

Traditional immigration systems struggled to keep pace, making automation essential. By replacing queues with clicks, India is addressing not only passenger convenience but also national security—pre-vetting lowrisk travellers allows officers to focus on higher-risk arrivals.

Challenges Ahead

4Awareness: With only 300,000 registrations so far, uptake is modest compared to millions eligible. Linking enrolment with passport/OCI issuance may help.

4Technical reliability: E-gates must function smoothly, with backup systems in place to avoid creating new bottlenecks.

4Global expansion: Scaling to include foreign nationals will be a crucial test.

A Symbolic Shift

At the programme’s inauguration in September, Home Minister Amit Shah linked the reforms to India’s broader aspirations, drawing a symbolic parallel with Swami Vivekananda’s 1893 Chicago address. Just as Vivekananda introduced the world to India’s spiritual heritage, Shah said, modern travellers arriving through India’s airports will now encounter a technologically confident nation.

Lighting Up the World:

The Global Rise of Diwali and Its Sister Festivals

AS AUTUMN DESCENDS ACROSS THE INDIAN SUBCONTINENT, A SEASON OF CELEBRATION UNFOLDS, BRINGING WITH IT A CONSTELLATION OF FESTIVALS ROOTED IN LIGHT, LIBERATION, GRATITUDE, AND FAMILIAL LOVE.

At the heart of this festive season is Diwali, also known as Deepavali, a festival so luminous and culturally rich that it has inspired a series of closely related observances throughout India, Nepal, and South Asian diaspora communities around the world. Alongside Diwali, people

Bandi

These festivals are deeply intertwined, often occurring within a few days of each other, and together they form a mosaic of joy, reflection, and spiritual meaning.

Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. While the spiritual narratives and rituals vary from region to region and faith to faith, the core symbolism remains consistent. Diwali represents the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. In northern India, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his fourteen-year

exile and his triumph over the demon king Ravana. In western and southern regions, the focus may shift to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, or the slaying of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. In Jain tradition, Diwali marks the day that Lord Mahavira attained nirvana, while in certain Buddhist communities, especially among the Newar people in Nepal, the festival is celebrated as a time of

Houses are cleaned, doors are decorated with intricate rangoli designs, and thousands of clay lamps are lit, illuminating not only homes but also hearts. Families gather in prayer, share sweets, and celebrate with fireworks and social gatherings. It is a time of joy and renewal, marking both an end and a beginning, the close of the harvest season and the beginning of a new financial year in many parts of India.

Closely associated with Diwali is the Sikh festival of Bandi Chhor Diwas, celebrated on the same day. While it coincides with Diwali, it has a distinct historical origin. The festival commemorates the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji,

from Gwalior Fort in 1619. The story goes that the Guru refused to leave prison unless fifty-two other Hindu princes who had been unjustly detained were also released. The clever solution involved crafting a special robe with fifty-two tassels so that each prince could hold on and walk out with the Guru. This powerful story of justice and selfless leadership is central to Sikh values. Gurdwaras are beautifully lit, devotional music fills the air, and langar, the community meal, is offered to all. For Sikhs around the world, Bandi Chhor Diwas is a time of spiritual reflection and celebration of liberation, both physical and spiritual.

In Nepal, the five-day festival of Tihar unfolds in parallel with Diwali and is one of

unique celebrations in the region. Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, is celebrated by Nepali Hindus and shares many similarities with Diwali, such as the lighting of oil lamps and worship of Lakshmi. However, Tihar also includes rituals that honor the interconnectedness of all life. On the first day, crows are worshipped as messengers. On the second day, dogs are honored for their loyalty and role as guardians. On the third day, cows are worshipped in the morning as sacred and nurturing mothers, and Lakshmi is welcomed into homes in the evening with lit lamps, flowers, and prayers. On the fourth day, oxen are honored in agrarian communities, and in some households, people worship their own bodies and accomplishments. The fifth and final day, Bhai Tika, is dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply a protective tika on their

brothers’ foreheads and offer prayers for their long life, while brothers offer gifts and promise to look after their sisters. It is a deeply emotional and personal celebration of family and mutual respect.

In eastern India, especially in West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Kali Puja is celebrated on the same night as Diwali. While Diwali in other parts of India focuses on Lakshmi, Kali Puja honors the fierce and protective goddess Kali. Devotees worship her with offerings of sweets, flowers, and sometimes animal sacrifices, seeking her blessings for protection from evil and spiritual strength. Temples and homes are illuminated with candles and diyas, and the night is spent in prayer, music, and rituals unique to

this form of worship. For many Bengalis, Kali Puja is the spiritual and emotional center of the Diwali period, reflecting the region’s distinctive theological and cultural traditions.

In many Hindu homes, the day after Diwali is celebrated as Govardhan Puja, which commemorates Lord Krishna’s lifting of the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains sent by the god Indra. On this day, small mounds of cow dung or food are shaped to represent the mountain and are worshipped with devotion and gratitude. This ritual symbolizes

respect for nature and Krishna’s message of humility and protection of the vulnerable. It is also a day of feasting, especially in northern India, where elaborate meals are prepared and shared with friends, families, and neighbors.

Another important observance is Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali, which usually falls a day before the main Diwali celebrations. This day commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura and is marked by early morning oil baths, prayers, and the lighting of lamps. In parts of South India, it is the primary day of Diwali celebration. Families begin the day with traditional rituals before enjoying sweets, savory snacks, and visiting temples.

The festive week concludes with Bhai Dooj, observed in several Indian states,

the bond between brothers and sisters. Unlike Raksha Bandhan, which occurs earlier in the year, Bhai Dooj is grounded in the legend of Yama, the god of death, visiting his sister Yamuna. She welcomed him with a ceremonial meal and tika, and he, in turn, granted her a boon that all brothers who receive tika from their sisters on this day would enjoy long life and prosperity. Sisters invite their brothers for a festive meal, apply a sacred tika on their foreheads, and exchange blessings and gifts in a ritual of love and protection.

As migration has dispersed communities from South Asia across the globe, these festivals have taken root in new homes. In cities from London to Toronto to Sydney, neighborhoods recreate the lights, the colors, and the communal warmth of the original festivals, although often adapted to local settings and contexts. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Fiji, the United States, and the United Kingdom now host grand Diwali celebrations that bring together people of all backgrounds. Significantly, these celebrations often emphasize unity, participation, and the cultural visibility of South Asian traditions within the larger multicultural societies in which they now exist.

In addition to Diwali and its related celebrations, other harvest festivals such as Baisakhi and Vaisakhi, which mark the Sikh New Year and the harvest season, are also increasingly observed abroad and have become part of cultural calendars in many diaspora communities. Although they are not celebrated in the same season as Diwali, they represent a similar spirit of gratitude and renewal. Various regional observances such as Pongal among Tamil communities and Bihu in Assam are celebrated abroad on a smaller scale, often through local cultural associations that organize performances and community feasts.

In Australia, South Asian festivals have moved from private homes and temples into the public realm. In cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, large-scale cultural events now mark these occasions. Diwali fairs are held in major venues with music, dance performances, food

stalls, and light displays. The Sydney Opera House has been lit in Diwali colors, a powerful symbol of cultural inclusion and national acknowledgment. Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium has hosted Diwali events featuring vibrant performances and thousands of attendees. Even supermarket chains such as Coles and Woolworths now offer Diwalithemed promotions and festive décor, reflecting the growing commercial and cultural significance of the celebration. Meanwhile, calls for Diwali to be recognized as an official public holiday continue to gain support, mirroring similar conversations happening in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

The expansion of these festivals outside South Asia highlights important themes. For diaspora communities, these celebrations offer a way of preserving cultural roots while embracing life in a new land. For broader society, they provide opportunities to experience and appreciate traditions that promote family values, community connection, and the joy of shared celebration. Over time, these festivals have evolved. While the heart of the observances remains centered on light, love, and renewal, their expressions have expanded to include multicultural performances, inclusive participation, and community-focused events supported by local councils and institutions.

As the South Asian diaspora continues to grow and multicultural policies develop, these festivals are likely to become even more integral to the cultural life of host countries. Public celebrations may become more inclusive, civic involvement may increase, and media visibility is expected to rise. Whether through large-scale community festivals, educational initiatives in schools, or symbolic recognitions such as lighting national monuments, the future of Diwali and its companion festivals appears bright, inclusive, and full of possibility.

These traditions, though rooted in centuries-old beliefs and practices, continue to resonate in modern cities and across continents. They offer not only moments of celebration but also serve as enduring reminders of resilience, cultural pride, and the ability to find light even in unfamiliar surroundings. In every diya lit, every tika applied, and every story shared, these festivals connect generations and cultures, illuminating lives far beyond their place of origin.

THANDAI TRUFFLES (SPICED WHITE Elegant Diwali Sweets with

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chilling Time: 1–2 hours

Yield: Approximately 15–18 truffles

Introduction

Celebrate Diwali with a sweet that bridges tradition and modern indulgence. These Thandai Truffles are inspired by the classic North Indian spiced drink, Thandai, traditionally made with a fragrant blend

of nuts, seeds, and aromatic spices. Here, that rich flavor is infused into a smooth white chocolate ganache, then shaped into truffles and finished with a variety of elegant toppings.

Perfect for festive entertaining or gifting, these truffles are a creative take on Indian mithai with global appeal.

Ingredients

For the truffles:

200 g white chocolate, finely chopped 100 ml heavy cream (or double cream)

WHITE CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES with a Modern Twist

41½ tablespoons Thandai powder (see below or use store-bought)

4 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)

4 1 teaspoon ghee or unsalted butter (optional, for added richness)

For coating (choose any combination):

4Finely chopped pistachios

4Dried edible rose petals

4Desiccated coconut

4Unsweetened cocoa powder

4Edible silver leaf (optional, for decoration)

Quick Homemade Thandai Powder

(Makes approx. 3 tablespoons. Use 1½ tablespoons for this recipe; store remainder in an airtight container.)

Grind the following into a fine powder:

4 1 tablespoon almonds

4 1 tablespoon cashews

4 1 tablespoon fennel seeds

4 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

4 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

4 1 teaspoon green cardamom seeds

4 1 teaspoon dried rose petals or ½ teaspoon rose powder

4A few strands of saffron

Method

Heat the cream

In a small saucepan, gently heat the cream until it begins to simmer. Do not boil. Remove from heat and

stir in the Thandai powder, rose water, and ghee (if using). Let it steep for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Melt the chocolate

Place the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Strain the warm cream mixture through a fine sieve over the chocolate to remove coarse spice particles. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. If needed, microwave in short 10-second bursts to finish melting.

Chill the mixture

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to shape.

Shape the truffles

Using a teaspoon or small scoop, portion the mixture and roll into smooth balls with your hands. Work quickly to avoid melting.

Coat and garnish

Roll each truffle in your choice of chopped nuts, rose petals, coconut, or cocoa powder. Optionally, apply edible silver leaf for a decorative touch.

Final chill

Place the coated truffles on a tray and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to set before serving.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestion

Present the truffles in paper cups on a brass platter or arrange them in a gift box lined with parchment for a festive Diwali gift. These truffles also pair beautifully with masala chai or saffron milk.

It’s rare to read stories about cricket journalists. They’ re usually the ones telling them painting our sporting heroes in prose that makes even a dull day of Test cricket feel magical.

Bharat Sundaresan

The True Blue Aussie Who Found Himself

By: Sanjay Khanna

But when the storyteller himself is as colourful, charismatic, and full of life as the stories he writes, it’s impossible not to turn the spotlight on him. Bharat Sundaresan is one of the world’s most recognisable cricket writers—a man whose technicolour outfits, painted nails, and radiant smile are as much a signature as his insightful words. His journey from Mumbai to Adelaide isn’t just a career story—it’s one of selfdiscovery, belonging, and the courage to be unapologetically oneself.

Sundaresan:

Himself Down Under

When Bharat arrived in Adelaide in 2017, he already felt at home. In May 2025, he officially became an Australian citizen—a day he describes as “nothing short of surreal.” The ceremony at Mount Barker turned into a mini celebration. ABC TV, where Bharat often appears, sent a camera crew and a giant Australian flag to capture the moment. Unlike most new citizens who quietly take the oath, Bharat was invited to share his story. “I told them, you’re taking a big risk giving me a mic!” he laughs. The next morning, ABC’s breakfast ticker read: “Bharat chooses Australia.” For him, it was the culmination of a seven-year wait—

and a lifelong sense of belonging finally acknowledged. “I’ve felt Australian from the day I moved here,” he says. “It feels good that Australia has accepted me as one of their own.”

He admits he never truly felt at home in India despite living there for three decades. Growing up in Mumbai in the late 1980s, Bharat was always a nonconformist—long hair, bright clothes, and a love of standing out in a culture that prized fitting in. “My parents used to ask, ‘Why do you want to be different?’ I’d tell them, ‘I’m not trying to be different, I’m just trying to be myself.’”

Cricket was his constant companion through it all. His earliest memory is watching India play the West Indies in 1990, followed by the Benson & Hedges World Series in Australia. “That’s where life started for me,” he says. While most kids idolised India, Bharat was captivated by the West

Indies—and strangely drawn to Australia. “The blue skies, the green grass, the loud stump mics—it felt like another planet.”

As a kid, he became the neighbourhood statistician, able to recall batting averages and match scores from memory. He even made it to the probables for the Mumbai Under-14 team before life took a turn in a different direction.

His teenage years were turbulent. He joined a heavy metal band as a drummer, chasing identity and escape, but that world also introduced darker choices—drug use that nearly ended his life. “I overdosed twice before I turned 21,” he says quietly. “After the second time, I told myself—I can’t die a loser. I need to do something with my life.”

An acquaintance noticed his passion for cricket and suggested journalism school. The day before leaving for Chennai’s

Asian College of Journalism, he suffered his second overdose. Somehow, he recovered, made it to Chennai, and began a new chapter—one that would define him. It was there that he met his future wife, Isha Chatterje, and rediscovered his sense of purpose. “Cricket equals life, and life equals cricket,” he says. “It’s what saved me.”

After journalism school, Bharat joined The Indian Express and, within six months, was covering international cricket—a remarkable feat for a rookie reporter. “They liked the way I did it,” he grins. For over a decade, he travelled the world, capturing the soul of the game through his storytelling. In 2018, he moved to Australia for what he calls his “second innings,” joining Cricbuzz as Senior Writer and Australian Correspondent. Since then, he’s become a familiar face on Channel 7 and ABC—though he insists none of it was planned. “Like most things in my life, it just happened. Okay—except my wife,” he laughs.

Covering cricket in Australia, he says, feels like a different world. “It’s more egalitarian— players and journalists live similar lives. I might bump into Pat Cummins at the same supermarket.” In India, access is limited and hierarchy runs deep. “I was close to some players like Kohli, but beyond a point— what do we have in common? He doesn’t eat where I eat or drive what I drive.” He believes that’s why Indian cricketers love

coming to Australia—to enjoy the freedom of being ordinary. “In Australia, the media and the sport feed off each other. If the media stopped covering cricket here, the game would actually suffer.”

Bharat’s most famous story wasn’t just about cricket—it was about compassion. For years, the former West Indies fast bowler Patrick Patterson had vanished. Bharat made it his mission to find him. After three trips to Jamaica across eight years, he finally did, in 2017. “Patrick wasn’t in great shape,” he recalls. “He didn’t remember much of his career. But I found him, and I’ve stayed in touch since.” Today, he continues to support Patterson financially and emotionally. “He’s part of my life now.” For many readers, that story remains his defining work—a reflection of his empathy

as much as his curiosity.

His love affair with Adelaide began during the 2014 India–Australia Test series, which started in the wake of Philip Hughes’ tragic passing. “Bombay was always loud and crowded. Adelaide was quiet and peaceful—I liked that.” He laughs that if the first Test had been in Brisbane, his life might have taken another path. “Maybe I wouldn’t have fallen in love with Adelaide,” he smiles.

As a migrant, he expected not to be accepted—but that, he says, was freeing. “I never felt accepted in India, so I wasn’t chasing it here. I just decided to be myself.” His advice to newcomers is simple: “Don’t fake an accent. Be curious. Be authentic. People here understand sincerity.”

When he first entered Australian media, his seniors warned he wouldn’t fit in—Aussie journalists were blazer-wearing and buttoned-up. Bharat smiled and said, “Give it a year. Let’s see who changes whom.”

Seven years later, he’s one of the most recognisable voices in Australian cricket media—nail polish, shorts, and all. “If I was still an outsider, I wouldn’t care,” he shrugs. “I just do my job and stay authentic. In Australia, if you bring a strong work ethic, you earn respect.”

In 2024, Bharat found himself crossing

codes—dabbling in AFL coverage after a spontaneous social media post caught the league’s attention. “They wanted to reach new audiences, and I guess I was… new!” he chuckles. Soon he was hosting an AFL podcast, Who Do You Barrack For?, and writing feature pieces. What started as a side project turned into a new passion. “Now I’m busy year-round,” he says. “It means being away from Isha more—but she’s my biggest supporter.”

Bharat’s flamboyant style has become his trademark—bright shirts, painted nails,

and flowing hair. “I’ve always loved colour,” he says. “As a kid, I’d always pick the most colourful pastry in the shop.” But it’s not about standing out—it’s about spreading joy. “People who don’t even know me come up and say seeing me makes them smile. That’s my purpose—to make people happy.”

He recalls a story that stays close to his heart. A Melbourne teacher once told him her student had been bullied for dressing colourfully. “She showed my ABC documentary in class, and the next day all the kids came dressed in bright colours,” Bharat says, eyes lighting up. When Channel 7 first invited him on air, they told him, “Come as you are.” And he has—bright, bold, and unapologetically himself.

Now, as a proud Australian citizen, Bharat wants to keep doing what he loves— covering cricket and AFL, connecting cultures, and staying true to himself. “Sport bridges cultures,” he says. “But migrants also have a responsibility to assimilate. We can’t always expect others to do it for us.”

Respected by the very stars he covers— Ravi Shastri calls him “an absolute professional,” Marnus Labuschagne praises his depth of knowledge, and Pat Cummins admires his integrity—Bharat remains humble. “I just try to tell stories about the beauty of cricket and life,” he says.

From Mumbai to Adelaide, from heavy metal to Test matches, from chaos to calm, Bharat Sundaresan’s journey is proof that the most powerful stories are the ones lived boldly—and told in full colour.

IHARJAS SINGH:

SYDNEY’S SENSATIONAL YOUNG TALENT SMASHING RECORDS

At just 20 years old, Harjas Singh is making waves in Sydney’s cricket scene. The left-handed batter of Indian descent recently captured global attention with a record-breaking triple-century for Western Suburbs, but his story is about much more than a single extraordinary innings.

t is the journey of a young athlete whose talent, discipline, and perseverance are shaping him into one of Sydney’s most exciting rising stars.

A Sporting Family and Early Beginnings

Born in Sydney in 2005 to parents who migrated from Chandigarh, India, Harjas was raised in a family deeply rooted in sport. His father, Inderjit Singh, was a state boxing champion in Punjab, while his mother, Avinder

Kaur, excelled as a state-level long jumper. From an early age, Harjas was immersed in a culture that valued discipline, resilience, and dedication, qualities that would become hallmarks of his cricketing journey.

At just eight years old, Harjas joined the Revesby Workers Cricket Club, beginning his formal cricket journey. Early backyard cricket with family and friends honed his handeye coordination, while his parents’ support and encouragement

nurtured both his skills and his love for the game. Interestingly, Harjas started as a right-handed batter but switched to left-handed to avoid breaking windows at home — a small childhood change that shaped the explosive style that defines him today.

Mentorship and Growth

Harjas’ cricketing development has been guided by Neil D’Costa, one of Sydney’s most respected batting coaches, known for

mentoring stars like Marnus Labuschagne, Michael Clarke, and Phillip Hughes. Under D’Costa’s guidance, Singh honed his technique, mental approach, and ability to handle pressure situations — lessons that would later pay dividends in both youth internationals and grade cricket.

A unique aspect of Harjas’ game is his powerful wrist strength, developed partly through training in Gatka, a traditional Punjabi martial art. This strength, combined with precision and timing, allows him to clear boundaries with ease, making him one of the most formidable hitters in Sydney firstgrade cricket.

Rising Through the Ranks

By 17, Harjas had already become one of Sydney first-grade cricket’s youngest centurions, signaling the arrival of a prodigious talent. His performances caught national attention, earning him a place in Australia’s Under-19 squad. He further impressed on the international stage, top-scoring with 55 runs in the 2024 ICC Under-19 World Cup final against India, helping Australia secure the championship. He also scored a century in a Youth Test against England in Northampton in 2023, highlighting his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

Despite these achievements, Harjas has not yet received a New South Wales rookie contract, which underscores the significance of his performances in Sydney grade cricket — proving his talent is undeniable even at the grassroots level.

Historic Triple Century

In October 2025, Harjas Singh produced an innings for the ages. Playing for Western Suburbs against Sydney Cricket Club at Pratten Park, he smashed 314 not out off 141 balls, including 35 sixes and 14 fours. His innings propelled his team to 5-483, with the next-highest score in the match just 37 — a testament to his dominance.

This performance is now the highest limited-overs score in NSW Premier Grade cricket and the third-highest in Sydney first-grade history, joining the ranks of legends like Victor Trumper and Phil Jaques. Singh himself described the innings as “the cleanest ballstriking I’ve ever witnessed from myself,” reflecting months of offseason preparation and focus on power-hitting.

Playing Style and Personality

Harjas combines aggressive batting with smart shot selection, making him equally capable of demolishing a bowling attack or building a steady

innings when needed. His left-handed stance, strong wrists, and precise timing allow him to hit boundaries at will, while his mental toughness — nurtured through family support and coaching — ensures he remains focused under pressure.

Off the field, Harjas is known for his humility, work ethic, and a grounded approach to cricket. “Cricket’s just a game,” he told the media. “You can be up one week and then next week get a duck. You never know how cricket’s going to go, so I try to focus on what I can control — my own game.”

A Role Model for the IndianAustralian Community

Harjas’ journey resonates beyond cricket. He represents a growing wave of Indian-origin players making their mark in Australian sport, inspiring young athletes in Sydney and across Australia. His achievements amplify pride in the Indian-Australian community and highlight the value of multicultural contribution to Australia’s sporting landscape.

Alongside peers like Sam Konstas and Adarsh Singh, Harjas is proving that local club cricket can produce extraordinary talent, bridging grassroots development with opportunities at higher levels of the game.

Looking Ahead

Harjas Singh’s trajectory points toward a bright future. With ambitions to play for NSW Second XI and the Big Bash League, he is focused on consistent performances and continual improvement. From backyard cricket in Sydney to record-breaking feats in first-grade competitions, Harjas is a player to watch — a testament to passion, family support, and the potential that thrives in local cricket circuits.

Harjas Singh isn’t just hitting records in Sydney; he’s building the foundation for a future where local talent meets global potential.

AFL DESI:

CONNECTING THE SOUTH ASIAN COMMUNITY WITH AUSTRALIA’S GAME

Inspired by the AFL’s vision to bring footy into every home and reach one million participants by 2033, AFL Desi was born as a vibrant platform that bridges Australia’s fastest-growing diaspora — the South Asian community — with the heart and soul of Australian football.

At its core, AFL Desi celebrates belonging, storytelling, and cultural pride through sport. The word Desi itself captures the shared identity and unity among South Asians, encompassing those from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and beyond. Through AFL Desi, the League hopes to make the game more accessible, relatable, and welcoming to the community, while fostering a deeper connection to Australia’s most iconic sport.

Building Connection Through Community Engagement

The AFL has long recognised that football is more than just a game — it’s a shared passion that unites people from all walks of life. AFL Desi embodies that spirit by weaving South Asian culture into one of Australia’s biggest sporting codes.

One standout initiative, the Who Do You Barrack For vodcast, blends humour, education, and community voices to introduce new audiences to the excitement of Australian football. It’s an example of how storytelling and laughter can make the game approachable and fun for those discovering it for the first time.

Beyond AFL Desi, the League continues to deepen its commitment to multicultural inclusion through initiatives such as the Cultural Diversity Action Plan, launched in 2025. This plan focuses on understanding community needs, breaking down barriers to participation, and ensuring the game reflects Australia’s rich diversity.

THE CHALLENGE LIES IN AWARENESS AND ACCESSIBILITY, BUT THE OPPORTUNITY IS VAST.

The Cultural Heritage Series, featuring nine special matches across the 2025 Toyota AFL season, further celebrates this diversity by offering elevated match-day experiences that honour the cultural fabric of the sport and its fans.

Representation and Storytelling: At the Heart of AFL Desi

Representation matters — and AFL Desi’s storytelling approach places this belief front and centre. Its dedicated Instagram presence has become a hub for culturally tailored content that educates, entertains, and connects South Asian fans with the world of footy.

Authenticity is key. By working with creators from within the community, AFL Desi ensures that its stories reflect real voices and lived experiences. One such voice is Bharat Sundaresan, the acclaimed writer and commentator known globally for his work with Cricbuzz. Based in Adelaide, Bharat’s storytelling bridges the worlds of cricket and AFL, speaking directly to South Asian audiences with warmth, humour, and insight.

To further strengthen cultural

authenticity, the AFL has partnered with a content agency with offices in both Australia and India — ensuring that creative development remains rooted in the values and experiences of the South Asian community across both regions.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with nearly 31 per cent of Australians born overseas. As such, it’s vital that the country’s national game reflects and celebrates this diversity. Through AFL Desi, the AFL aims to not only introduce South Asian audiences to the sport but also create pathways for sustained engagement — from watching and supporting to participation, volunteering, and even elite competition.

The challenge lies in awareness and accessibility, but the opportunity is vast. With the growth of AFL Desi’s presence and the League’s continued investment in inclusivity, the future of

AUTHENTICITY IS KEY. BY WORKING WITH CREATORS FROM WITHIN THE COMMUNITY, AFL DESI ENSURES THAT ITS STORIES REFLECT REAL VOICES AND LIVED EXPERIENCES. ONE SUCH VOICE IS BHARAT SUNDARESAN, THE ACCLAIMED WRITER AND COMMENTATOR KNOWN GLOBALLY FOR HIS WORK WITH CRICBUZZ. BASED IN ADELAIDE, BHARAT’S STORYTELLING BRIDGES THE WORLDS OF CRICKET AND AFL, SPEAKING DIRECTLY TO SOUTH ASIAN AUDIENCES WITH WARMTH, HUMOUR, AND INSIGHT.

Australian football looks increasingly multicultural and dynamic.

A Vision for Inclusion

The long-term vision for AFL Desi is clear — to become an established, trusted part of the AFL’s multicultural landscape and a lasting bridge between cultures through sport.

Alongside initiatives like the Cultural Diversity Action Plan, the Cultural Heritage Series, and talent pathways such as the Next Generation Academy, the AFL is building a future where every Australian can see themselves reflected in the game.

Together, these programs are shaping a sporting culture that values participation, celebrates difference, and welcomes everyone to be part of something bigger — the spirit of Australian football. AFL Desi isn’t just about introducing footy to new audiences — it’s about redefining what it means to belong.

Through culture, community, and connection, it’s ensuring that the great game truly is for everyone.