From the Publisher

Welcome to March, when we celebrate the colourful festival of Holi; our lead story is Brisbane Holi which was a big success congratulations to the organisers; now let us all embrace the true essence of Holi, which is to leave aside any differences and extend the hand of friendship, to start a new chapter and to move forward. The last month has been full of activities, and it has been good to witness everyone getting together in big numbers once again. Maha Shivratri was observed with full Fervour in Brisbane and many locations. Congratulations to Joe Kelly MP for hosting a multicultural get-together at the Ukrainian Club; such a thoughtful gesture was made even more special with the gracious presence of Minister Leanne Linnard MP. Congratulations are also to Kannada Sangha for successfully launching their language school and badminton tournament, a progressive organisation driven by women’s power.

Anu Sharma and Australian Indian Theatre staged another episode of

Salam E Ishaq, a colourful and witty musical presentation; the scripting was superb roles were well chosen to suit the actors’ personalities; I enjoyed the exhibition together with our team from Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio. This was a busy night in Brisbane, as it was on this night that Gulam Ali Shaeb’s show was on, another resounding success and Valentine’s dinner function supported by Sangeet Premi Club. All events were well attended, but my take is that the attendance would have been better if these were spread over the three days of the weekend. Touring international artists have time limitation, but local productions can be more accommodative.

Attending Somlata’s live concert was another pleasing experience; a typical three-piece rock band set up featuring talented artists demonstrated that when you are true to your genre, your performance is from the heart, and it shows.

One event I want to talk about is

Matra Pitra Diwas, a day dedicated to showing respect to parents instead of Valentine’s Day; now, this has come about because of misconceptions amongst the youth, especially in India, about what Valentine’s Day means. We were blown away by the concept, which is now growing in popularity and rightfully so; please refer to the article by Ashok Attri ji. As we have the reaffirmation ceremony at citizenship ceremonies, this is similar to reaffirming the love and respect for parents and children.

Congratulations to Shivaani on her Angetram, a masterpiece presentation delivered with military precision. This family have contributed significantly to our traditional classical art form. Expressed via dance, please refer to the main article.

We were happy and proud to have supported Sunil Gover’s comedy show; in a challenging world and under stressful conditions, one needs a break and attending a comedy show, laughing to your heart’s content can be revitalising, though Sunil has been here before. Few people have previously witnessed his acts; the show is always humorous and entertaining and includes some fantastic local talents.

• Gagan deep Tandon

• Brian Sullivan (Photography)

• Rajesh Chand

Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.

All corresondence should be addressed to: Brisbane indian times, PO Box 197, taigum Qld 4018. Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: 3865 5864 / prod@indiantimes.com.au

From the Editor:

If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to:

Brisbane indian times

Suite 5, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

Now there have been concerns within our community, which need to be handled responsibly and in a united manner; unfortunately, that is one of our weak points where we seem to operate in isolation for selfglorification. The media does not need the invitation to attend any event; with freedom of the press and the right to information, we can observe and report on any occasion; yes, if it is not factual, it can be challenged; there are due processes. However, a weak and divided approach compromises the community’s best interest.

Let me finish with International Women’s Day; what a fantastic theme this year #embraceequity. The IWD 2023 #EmbraceEquity campaign theme aims to get the world talking about Why equal opportunities aren't enough. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action. Forging gender equity isn't limited to women solely fighting the good fight. Allies are incredibly important for women's social, economic, cultural, and political advancement.

On that note, it is time to say goodbye, look after yourself, and #EmbraceEquity until next Month’s Happy Reading.

umesh chandra OaM Publisher