aadi Koozh offering and upcoming onam celebrations at gchca

IN the heart of the Gold Coast, amidst the vibrant energy of the Education and Cultural Precinct, the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) hosted the Aadi month Koozh offering celebration. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation as the community gathered to honour the significance of this special time in the Tamil calendar.

The event commenced with sacred chants, seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The rhythmic beats of the Kummi dance and the ululation of kulavai reflected the vibrant spirit of Tamil culture. The soulful bhajan that followed, led by the gifted voices of Aarty Shammbhasivam, Jasmine Subashini, Geethanjali, Thanaletchumi, Sharvini, Subramaniam Chandra, and Gomathi Rajarathinam, touched the hearts of all present, transporting them to a realm of divine serenity. The melodies carried the essence of devotion, weaving a sense of unity among the devotees.

In a heartwarming tribute to the diversified heritage of Tamil and Hindu cultures, Vishnu uncle, an esteemed member of the Fijian community, graced the gathering with a lullaby song (thaalaattu) dedicated to the goddess accompanied by the mystical sounds of the udukkai (Damaru).

The highly anticipated Koozh was offered with kozhukkattai and panagam. With great reverence, the special porridge, Koozh, prepared exclusively during the month of AADI, was presented as a tribute to the divine Goddess Amman. The festivities included the offering of a traditional South Indian lunch. Devotees delighted in the delicious spread, savouring each bite while cherishing the company of their fellow worshippers—the Kozhukkattai and refreshing panagam perfectly balanced flavours, signifying the richness of life's experiences.

This Gold Coast Hindu Association's event served as a spiritual feast and a reminder of the universal values that unite humanity, such as love, harmony, and reverence for life. The Aadi month 'Koozh' offering hosted by GCHCA exemplified the essence of unity and devotion for all who participated in this joyous celebration.

The next celebration at GCHCA is the Onam celebrations on 20th August 2023 at the precinct located at 15 Byth St, Arundel. The Onam celebration will start at 9 am with Maha Yagya, followed by cultural performances, including Thiruvathira dance, and will end with a delicious "Onam Sadhya."

Onam is a time to welcome the harvest festival and the homecoming of the Hindu mythological King Mahabali. It was in Mahabali’s reign when Kerala witnessed a golden period. King Mahabali did not discriminate between his people based on religion or caste. Therefore, the Onam tradition is not exclusive to any religion.

Please register via the following Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite. com.au/e/686410511317

More details about this event and activities will be available on their website http://culture. goldcoasthindu.org or please contact them via gchcan@gmail.com.