April 2024 edition of Desi Australia Digital Magazine

Happy

Anthony Albanese

Prime Minister, Member for Grayndler

Richard Marles

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Defence, Member for Corio

Tanya Plibersek

Minister for the Environment and Water, Member for Sydney

Penny Wong

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator for South Australia

Clare O'Neil

Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, Member for Hotham

Mark Dreyfus KC

Attorney-General, Member for Isaacs

Andrew Giles

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Member for Scullin

Jenny McAllister

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Senator for New South Wales

Dr Carina Garland

Member for Chisholm

Jerome Laxale

Member for Bennelong

Authorised by P Erickson, ALP 5/9 Sydney Ave, Barton ACT 2600

of having positive Social Interactions

Harmony Day

NSW Transport 21 March 2024

Crew: A Film Review

Saree Club Celebrates International Women’s Day

Bollywood superstar

Varun Dhawan lands down under!

Sydney Royal Easter Show

A Grand Celebration of Sports and Culture: The 36th Australian Sikh Games in Adelaide, South Australia

Hello Everyone,

Month of April celebrates the New Year in different States of India and the celebrations extend to the Indian Diaspora across the globe, Australia is no exception.

We bring to you the coverage of these festivities along with other stories on women, talent, health, movie review, recipe and many more.

Hope you enjoy reading this edition.

Feel free to connect with

wider communities or if you want to be the part of Desi Australia as a writer, photographer, videographer or editor. Keep spreading the love and positive vibes.

Fostering Harmony: 2024 Affinity’s Tradition of Ramadan Iftar Gatherings

For more than twenty years, Affinity has hosted a series of iftar dinners that unite individuals from varied backgrounds to honour the essence of the Holy Ramadan and foster interfaith dialogue. This Ramadan was no exception as Affinity continued its tradition of building harmony through a series of inspiring iftar gatherings. Amidst the backdrop of societal fragmentation, Affinity’s Ramadan Iftar gatherings persistently served as a unifying force, drawing individuals together to foster dialogue and cultivate enduring connections. These iftar dinners serve as a vital platform for guests to explore pivotal topics including social cohesion, justice, and universal human values, thereby nurturing a profound sense of community and mutual understanding.

On March 14th, Affinity’s inaugural iftar dinner, held proudly in collaboration with the University of Notre Dame Australia, heralded the commencement of their inaugural iftar dinner journey towards unity and cooperation. Themed “Embracing Differences and Creating Harmony,” the event convened 100 guests at the University of Notre Dame Australia. Jacinta Collins, Executive Director of the National Catholic Education Commission, delivered a stirring keynote address, establishing the

Affinity’s Gatherings

atmosphere for an evening brimming with profound connections.

Following suit, on March 18th, the Affinity NSW Parliament Friendship & Dialogue Iftar Dinner, now in its 15th year, unfolded at the NSW Parliament House. Co-hosted by The Hon. Stephen Kamper MP and Mr. Mark Coure MP, Ministers for Multiculturalism, the event welcomed 250 guests under the theme “Listen with ears of tolerance. See through the eyes of compassion. Speak with the language of love (RUMI)”. Notably, the presence of NSW Premier Chris Minns MP and Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman MP further emphasised the bipartisan commitment to promoting dialogue and mutual respect in the community. Giridharan Sivaraman, the newly appointed Race Discrimination Officer, delivered a powerful keynote message of unity and understanding. Angus Olsen, the 2024 NSW Local Hero, graced the occasion with his presence, imparting profound insights that stirred the hearts and minds of all in attendance.

The Ramadan journey extended further with the third iftar dinner, taking place on March 23rd, in collaboration with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Wattle Grove church, under the theme of “Harmony in Faith.” This historic event, marking the inaugural iftar hosted at the church, united 80 guests in a spirit of unity and cooperation. Joseph La Posta, CEO of Multicultural NSW, delivered an inspiring message, highlighting the shared values among diverse faith communities.

Reaching its peak, Affinity’s Ramadan concluded with the 11th Building Harmony Iftar Dinner, proudly organised in collaboration with the Uniting Church Synod of NSW & ACT, held on April 3rd. This year’s gathering, hosted at Blacktown Uniting Church, centred around the theme “Peace Transforming Communities.” Patricia Garcia AO delivered a compelling keynote address, while Rev Dr Patrick McInerney provided a reflective response, emphasising

of peace in nurturing inclusive communities. The evening embodied the values of peace, respect, love, and coexistence.

In addition to these iftar dinners, Affinity also hosted traditional home iftar gatherings with local Sydney Muslim families. This initiative aimed to further promote connections and understanding among members of the Australian community. Guests discovered the warmth of Ramadan hospitality as they were graciously

welcomed into the homes of Muslim families, where they were invited to partake in evenings of delicious food and meaningful conversation. These home iftars reflect more than just the host families opening their doors; they mirror the opening of their hearts, as beautifully expressed by Rumi: ‘There is a window from one heart to another heart,’ embodying true and meaningful dialogue.

Affinity’s Ramadan legacy firmly stands

as a testament to the organisation’s unwavering dedication to promoting peace, unity, and understanding across cultural and religious divides. Through two decades of iftar dinners, Affinity continues to inspire individuals to embrace diversity and work together towards a more inclusive, harmonious and peaceful society. Their iftar dinners are a reflection of the true spirit of Ramadan and a fabric of social cohesion: compassion, sharing, and togetherness.

Being Woman – Personal inspiring women on what it

By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Being a woman can mean a range of different things to people. For some, it is about embracing the unique challenges and opportunities that present themselves for those who identify as women.

For others, it means working towards making this world fairer and more inclusive.

For many it is about collaborating and empowering other women beyond the restraints of race, age, sexuality, political and cultural identities and physicality.

For most, being woman means balancing traditional societal expectations while navigating the demands of the ever changing world. Women have had to challenge stereotypes and break barriers time and again for the progress of their kind.

Presented below are opinions of four influential women who, in their own way, are shaping the way for women of the future – be it in education, business or community leadership. I asked them to reflect on what it means to be a woman and what they think women really want. Here is what they have to say.

Q: What does being a woman mean to you?

Jayanti: I wish I could say, it means everything in the world to me. But I would be fooling myself if I said that.

I had heard a part of a verse from the Viveka Choodamani, “jantunaam nara janma dhurlabham” and used to feel glad that I got this rare human birth. But then I read the rest of the verse and it translates as “For all beings a human birth is difficult to obtain, more so is a male body.” Doesn’t sound right, does it?

That one simple verse captures my feelings. It doesn’t mean I feel inadequate as a woman. I have done plenty of things with a woman’s body. But I could have used my

talents, skills and abilities in a much better, grander way if I had a male body.

Let us not fool ourselves dear women. International women’s days will come and go. We will mark these days once a year. But the societal attitude towards men and women, especially in an Indian context, is not going to change with such celebrations and observances.

It is true that today, the life of a woman is better as compared to the life of a woman a 100 years ago. But is it anywhere near the life of a man 100 or 10 years ago? Be honest in your assessment and you would understand why I want a male body but with the same mind/skills set as now, to achieve more than I can ever achieve in a female body.

Ms Jayanti Gupta

Founder and Chair Integrated Women’s Network (IWN) Canberra

Presenter and coordinator of Radio broadcast Gender Equity Matters (GEM)

Australian of the YearLocal Hero ACT finalist

Tran: Understanding women’s desires involves recognising their desire for inclusion and equal treatment. It’s about being judged based on achievements rather than appearance. Women seek the freedom to express themselves through attire without facing undue scrutiny. Their voices often face underestimation, highlighting the importance of male allies in the quest for equality. As a woman in Australia, I see it as my duty to advocate for other women

reflections of four it means to be a woman

in less fortunate circumstances. Being a woman of colour in a liberated society adds a layer of social responsibility to amplify voices where such freedoms are lacking, encouraging a more equitable world.

Ms Tran Mirciov

Lead Teacher K-12 IB Independent School, Brisbane

Recipient Karen Spiller Teaching Fellowship

Finalist ASG NEiTA National Excellence in Teaching Awards and Australian Education Awards - Primary School Teacher of the Year (non-government)

Q: What, in your opinion, do women really want?

Sahithi: What women really want is respect above all else. They want validation of their ideas, concerns, and a platform that empowers them to bring positive social transformation in society. Women strive for the autonomy to make choices and shape their lives according to their own preferences, without being swayed by the views of others.

Sahithi Paturi Founder and President Women’s Inspiration Network, Canberra

Janet: What women want is the safe platform to be who they are – to unapologetically, unashamedly, be as they are. Women today have come a long way but there are still barriers to break down and equalities to be established especially when it comes to women in business. What they want is that their voice be heard.

Janet Willis Entrepreneur Health and Wellbeing, Gold Coast

The most powerful thing about being a woman is our inherent capacity of resilience and adaptability. As we reflect on these perspectives, let us also celebrate the diversity within the community and together forge forward as warriors of change.

BHARATANATYAM TORCH BEARERS OF THE UNIQUE PANDANALLUR STYLE OF B

By: Divya Somasundaram

harathamuni’s Natyashastra is a text that mentions not only the technicalities of dance but highlights the connection between dance, culture and spirituality. In this great treatise, it is said that a dancer is one step closer in union with the almighty and the art penetrates every sinew of the body in Bhakthi. The Arangetram of Manasvinee Karthikeyan and Sonali Bhaskar, presented by Silambam-Sydney, was a testament to the centuries of Indian Culture and spirituality nurtured in two young Indian-Australian girls.

In 2009, the girls recall seeing a beautiful dancer enter a stage wearing colourful costume and shining jewellery. Her dynamic movements, expressions and the way she could tell a story without using any words captivated their hearts! In a few years, she became the guiding hand they were entrusted to with their delicate steps that

blossomed from young toddlers to skilled dancers gracefully traversing the stage.

Guru Aruna Gandhi, Founder-Director of Silambam-Sydney School of Indian Traditional Dance delivered on the 16th of March two mature and highly refined dancers.

A senior disciple of the renowned Prof. Sudharani Raghupathi, Aruna has carefully crafted and trained her disciples in the beautiful Pandanallur style of Bharatanatyam.

Rigorous rehearsals, physical, mental and emotional resilience, injuries, hours spent on prudent and systematic planning, creative choreographies - it is an Olympian’s feat!

An arangetram is the culmination of not just one or two years of event planning but it is also an unique experience of dance’s impact on the life of a person.

The anticipation hung heavy in the air as friends and family members bustled about,

Thillana in Valaji and Misra Chaapu filled the auditorium with pride as the girls joyfully resonated their dance with laya of the mridangam, masterfully played by Sumukha Jagadeesh. The mangalam built a crescendo as many got emotional seeing the girls bowing down as they take their first step into the world of dance beginning their artistic journey.

ensuring every last detail was in place for the upcoming arangetram. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and a nervous energy, the culmination of years of hard work and dedication about to be showcased on stage. Enna Thavam Seydanai in ragam Kapi, welcomed us into the auditorium, a sense of serenity and devotion was spread. As the lights dimmed and the curtains drew back, the stage was set for a night that would surely be remembered for years to come.

Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya, evoking Shri Hari with a verse from the Shrimad Bhagavatham set the tone for the beautiful performance to unfold. Manasvinee and Sonali took their first steps on stage, decked in yellow, red and green, glistening with temple jewellery and passion emanating on their faces. Flowers in their hands, they set out to seek the blessings of God, their Guru, the orchestra and the audience, their feet

Talent

aligning with the sollukattu of their Guru. The Ganesha Pancharatnam, Subramanya Bhujangam and Saraswati Ashtakam were sung as the girls bowed to the almighty. This was followed by a crisp and unique Nataraja Kavuthuvam.

The girls showcased their love and respect for their Maathru Bhumi and Karma Bhumi through “Vande Hiranmaya Khandam” and “Paarukulle Nalla Naadu” in their performance. Dr. Meenakshi Srinivasan’s composition, ‘Vande Hiranmaya’, with an innovative choreography by Guru Aruna, was exhibited beautifully as they described Australia as the land of the Ādivāsis, exuding a plethora of beauty. Bharathiyar’s patriotic lines shed light on India’s culture, values, natural beauty, and spirituality. The mesmerising lighting in the colours of the Tiranga added to the pride the girls felt in their unique cultural background.

ing by Namrata Pulapaka, this varnam was a treat to watch!

Sri Chakra Raja Simhasaneshwari - Manasvinee excelled in her solo, a heartfelt ode to the feminine energy of the universe. Manasvinee’s bhakthi was gracefully portrayed through her expertise in āngika abhinaya as she displayed the different aspects of Devi: The universal mother (vatsalya bhava), Simhāsaneshwari (valour), Rajarajeshwari (Pride). With boundless devotion, vocalist Namrata sung Manasvinee’s name as an act of surrender of the nayika’s manas unto the divine feminine energy.

Lord Krishna, the most attractive, is compared to the Navaratnās in Saint Annamācharya’ Muddugāre Yashodā. With Krishna’s different leelas and forms, Sonali was given ample opportunity to showcase her prowess in portraying the Navarasās and Sanchari Bhava. Paalajalanidhilona Paayani Divya Ratnamu, in this verse, Sonali narrated the Samudra Manthanam, highlighting her ability to change between rasās swiftly as she enacted the Surās and the Asurās. This item brimmed our hearts with love for the sweetheart of Mother Yashoda.

Varnam - the core piece. Encompassing Nritta, Nritya, and Natya, the girls immersed in Vipralambha Shringara questioning Lord Krishna’s leelas of how he showed mercy on his devotees, “Do you not see my yearning for you? Oh compassionate one!”. The girls did beyond justice to this 50-minute testament item. Sancharis of Rukmini and Krishna’s union, the Kalinga Narthana with rapid jathis, the young maiden of Vrajapura stricken by the love arrows of Manmatha, demoness Putana, and the lifting of the mighty Govardhana Giri - all stories of the darling of Vrindavan being brought to life. Interwoven were jathis that mediated between Vilamba, Madhyama, and Duritha Kālās, recited with punch and clarity by Guru Aruna along with a powerful mridanga playing by Sumukha Jagadeesh. The poses enacting the sancharis stole our hearts, along with melodies by flautist Divya Sarweswaran and violinist Kranthi Kiran Mudigonda. Enhanced with a soulful sing-

Thillana in Valaji and Misra Chaapu filled the auditorium with pride as the girls joyfully resonated their dance with laya of the mridangam, masterfully played by Sumukha Jagadeesh. The mangalam built a crescendo as many got emotional seeing the girls bowing down as they take their first step into the world of dance beginning their artistic journey.

The entire team’s efforts including lighting by Ananda Galagali assisted by Dharshini, and MC by Shishira were appreciated by all.

As Silambam-Sydney celebrates its 15th Anniversary this year, the institution’s significant contribution to the world of arts was clearly demonstrated through this Arangetram!

The girls were greatly praised for their achievement - “Varnam was excellent, one of the longest I have watched”, “They very beautifully executed their Guru’s training”, “Not many get this opportunity, this depicts the parents’ upbringing by instilling good samskāra in them”. Many congratulations Manasvinee and Sonali, you’ve proved yourselves!

An Evening with Shankari

By Preeti Gupta

The setting for this fantastic evening was the Knox Grammar School, an initiative of the Old Knox boys’ Association (OKGA). The heavens had opened and there was a constant downpour but the spirits were high.

This was a very special one as it was the first such event in the Centenary Celebration of the School. We were extremely thrilled to have the

The setting for this fantastic evening was the Knox Grammar School, an initiative of the Old Knox boys’ Association (OKGA). The heavens had opened and there was a constant downpour but the spirits were high.

atmosphere of being in a cosy close-knit family group.

Chairman of the OKGA Rob Johnson and his team comprising of Sarah Gregory, Lachlan Liao and Juliet Chandler were at hand looking after the smooth progress of the evening. The person interviewing was none other than Scott Whitmont, who a lot of us knew as the owner Lindfield Bookshop before it shut its doors a couple of years ago. It was a surprise for me to know that he was also an old Knox boy and that too from the same batch as Rob Johnson. Small world. I have known him for 16 years through one of my book clubs.

Amongst the audience were the proud parents of Shankari; Rathy and Nadana Chandran. It

Miles Franklin Winner of 2023 Ms Shankari Chandran for her book Chai Time @ Cinnamon Garden. She’s also a Knox mum and that added an

Shankari Chandran

was wonderful to get to know them and gain an insight into their perspective of the girl she had been growing up. My friend’s son Rohan Gandhi who was visiting from London couldn’t contain his excitement at being able to attend the evening but also converse with the elder Chandrans. He said it was interesting to know that whilst she had qualified to do Medicine she had chosen to do law and was a big fan of the series Law and Order. Also, the fact they were amazed by how thorough her research was regarding the nuances of the Hindu religion and it is very subtly conveyed through the way the deities are placed in the order of veneration in her Miles Franklin winning novel. He also loved her conversation with writing and storytelling, talking of race - particularly white vs people of colour was so eloquently articulated - did an excellent job of creating awareness and yet highlighting how Australia is progressing well.

As Bronwyn Smyth, a retired Killara High teacher of English and Legal studies said, “I had the good fortune to be present at Knox Grammar School where Shankari Chandran spoke with candour and humour of her blossoming writing career. She emphasised the role of story-telling traditions within her family and the network of family and friends who contribute to her output. It was very inspiring to see one so young juggle being a lawyer and mum of four and being a prolific writer.”

Dipika Gandhi who is a keen reader exclaimed, “Shankari was brilliant, authentic, loves words and story telling and is passionate about different communities and social issues!”

It was my pleasure to welcome and introduce Shankari Chandran on behalf of the School and the Headmaster. She was so matter of fact when I called up to ask her if there was anything specific she would like me to say about her and the instant response

was so humble, “Just that I’m a proud Knox mum, I love storytelling and my Humanitarian work.” I also got to know that her TWO absolute favourites are To Kill a Mockingbird and Richard Flanagan’s works especially his The Narrow Road to the Deep Sea. She also shared that she references Flanagan in her books. In her younger years, fantasy novels fascinated her.

Scott and Shankari’s strong association meant that there was a sense of ease and the conversation flowed. She shared the heartbreaking experience of rejections she had to endure to the point where she was even told that her book wasn’t Australian enough and nobody would publish it here and maybe she should find a publisher in India. It was very heart-warming to know Scott was the first one to give her books a prominent display and organised a session with Shankari. Isn’t it amazing that the person who was told her work wasn’t Australian enough should be awarded the Miles Franklin award!!! There’s karmic justice and also shows her resilience to persevere.

Her insight into her writing process, her research and collaboration with First Nations people was very illuminating and one could clearly see her passion in her eloquent articulation of some parallels she could see between the migrant and the First Nations People’s experience of being marginalised.

Being from the sub-continent one could relate with the labyrinth of family relationships she was referencing when speaking of her grandma and their visits to see her. The stories her grandma told them about the fellow residents as she knew them from Sri Lanka sowed the seeds of the love Shankari has for storytelling. I could totally relate to as my paternal grandma who was a treasure trove of stories and lived with us till she passed away at the grand age of 90.

She also shared that she likes to dabble in

writing in different genres and sometimes blends them and was very glad Rob Watkins of Ultimo Press was very supportive of this and happy to print her work regardless. She has a few tele-series in the pipeline. Her new book Safe Haven is releasing on 6 May 2024. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to give an elevated pitch for it. However, it sounded exciting and I can’t wait to get my copy signed by her.

She is so very smart, an engaging orator, her sense of space and quips are fantastic! She is so comfortable in her own skin and her self-deprecating humour endeared her to everybody in the audience.

All in all it was a stupendous evening and nobody wanted to leave…

Holi in the House” hosted by the celebrating the Launch of NSW Parliamentary

The Australia India Business Council (AIBC), the leading bilateral business chamber, hosted the celebration of Holi, India’s iconic festival of colours and the launch of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India at the NSW Parliament House on Wednesday, 20 March 2024.

Welcoming Parliamentarians, businesses, event partners, AIBC members and the diaspora, Mr Irfan Malik, AIBC National Associate Chair and NSW President said, “It is the first time that Holi is being celebrated at the NSW Parliament and the launch of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India is an acknowledgement of the strong connections between NSW and India.”

The Hon Prue Car MP, Deputy Premier representing The Hon Chris Minns MP, Premier of New South Wales, said “This

Australia India Business Council

Parliamentary Friends of India, 20 March 2024

launch is very special and important for the NSW Government. Not only by the increasing number of migrants from India, but also their contribution to NSW makes it special. It is also special because the launch coincides with the Holi Festival of Harmony.”

The event was organized by the AIBC, with bipartisan support including The Hon Mark Speakman MP, Leader of the Opposition; The Hon Steven Kamper MP, Minister for Multiculturalism; Dr S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India, Sydney; Mr Warren Kirby MP, Member for Riverstone & Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India; Mr Gurmesh Singh MP, Member for Coffs Harbour & Co-Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India; The Hon Scott Farlow MLC, Liberal Party NSW; Councillors, Members of Parliament, Community leaders and media.

Mr Kirby formally launched the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India and said, “In recent years the social, economic and defence relations between Australia and India had grown tremendously. The launch at the time of Holi was significant as the festival augurs new beginnings. NSW Parliamentary Friends of India will encourage collaborations, fostering of relations and friendships between the people of both countries.”

Dr Janakiraman, Consul General India, Sydney said, “Our relations are one of the best. The visits of many trade delegations from Australia to India, and from India to NSW, signify the growing economic partnership and the establishment of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India will further enhance our friendship.” Ms Jodi McKay, AIBC National Chair and Chair of the CEO Forum, congratulated the great initiative of the Parliamentary Friends of India, and said that NSW contributes significantly to the economic and trade relations with its resources, contributions to renewable energy and education sectors. Ms Poornima Menon, AIBC NSW Management Committee member delivered the vote of thanks.

Happy Bengali New Year

On behalf of Cumberland Council, I would like to wish all those who are celebrating, a Happy Bengali New Year! May this New Year bring you and your families peace, rejuvenation and replenishment.

I would also like to acknowledge Bangabandhu Council Australia (BCA) and extend my congratulations for your hard work and dedication to the Bengali community.

Since 1989, BCA has been actively promoting and supporting the traditions, customs, values and cultural life of the Bengali people in Australia.

THE NSW PARLIAMENTARY FRIENDS OF INDIA WILL ENCOURAGE COLLABORATIONS, FOSTERING OF RELATIONS AND FRIENDSHIPS BETWEEN THE PEOPLE OF BOTH COUNTRIES,” SAYS CHAIR MR WARREN

Thank you for your contribution to the community and I look forward to your continued success!

Mayor Lisa Lake

month

April is which accords for promise that May is bound to keep

By: Sheetal Puri

The word April is derived from the latin word ‘aperit’ which means to open and this month can be seen same as its meaning. This month gives us newness, growth and prosperity in the Northern Hemisphere of the Globe.

Like every year, let’s cherish the blossoms of flowers and vivify season with the myriad of festivals all over the world.

The foremost festival which is coming this 13th April is VAISAKHI or VAISAKHI. This is known as Spring Harvest Festival. It is celebrated with huge enthusiasm in the Northern part of India. This festival is being celebrated by both Hindus and Sikh communities. It marks the harvest of winter crops i.e. Rabi crops. It also remarks the Sikh New Year and memorizes the formation of the Khalsa Panth of warriors under Guru Gobind Singh ji in 1699. You would be surprise to know that Baisakhi falls on 13th April every year and on 14th April once in 36 years.

Vaisakhi festival is celebrated to pay gratitude to Almighty for the abundant harvest and to seek blessings for future prosperity and progress.

Bohang BIHU, Assam

Another festival which falls in the mid of April and is the most famous festival which celebrates the onset of the Assamese New year and welcomes the spring season is Bohang Bihu. It is believed that when large

crowd started tilling the land in the Brahmaputra valley for nourishment that time this festival started to be celebrated for their healthy and wealthy progress. This year we can enjoy Bihu festival from 14th April onwards. Bihu celebration is stretched for seven days and every day has its own significance.

EID-ul-Fitr, across India

It is a joyous occasion but it underlines the purpose of religious unity & harmony. EID brings a message of peace and harmony among people across the world.

EID is a time for reflection and starting afresh, a time to rejoice with family and friends, but also a time for remembering those who are less fortunate.

Easter, across India

Although autumn is in its entire sway and winter is forthcoming in the southern hemisphere; fluffy rabbits, yellow chicks and eggs as are the symbols of spring, remain

Festivals

part of Australian festivities in this month of April. The Easter bunny came into existence when people worshipped several god and goddess in pre Christian Germany. The rabbit was the symbol of goddess Eostre because of this animal’s high rate of reproduction. As the spring symbolizes new life and rebirth in the same way the eggs were mythological symbol of fertility.

Easter is a predominant Christian festival and now celebrated worldwide. Easter does not fall on a fixed date; it is computed based on a lunar solar calendar. It has come to be the first Sunday after the canonical full moon that occurs soon after 21st March.

People on Easter Sunday attend church services and enjoy the four-day weekend fete and relax with their family and friends. Some people also like to exchange Easter gifts and kids are motivated to make Easter eggs and decorate them with their innovative ideas. This year we can be part of the Easter feast on 17th April, 2022 and have a congenial day with our friends and family.

“Celebrate and relish every festival irrespective of any religion and spread the gaiety beyond the faith.”

Tulip Festival, Kashmir

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is the place where you must be headed in the month of April. Situated in the foothills of the Zabarwan range, the garden overlooks Dal Lake in Srinagar and is the proud host to Asia’s largest Tulip Flower Show. During this period, this part of Kashmir valley is painted in almost every color of the spectrum. Make sure that you spot all the colorful Tulips out there. This is among the most popular April festivals in India.

Shad Suk Mynsiem, Meghalaya

he Shad Suk Mynsiem is celebrated in Meghalaya. Just like most of India is celebrating the harvest time, the Khasi men and women choose to celebrate in their trademark way. This is also known as the Thanksgiving Dance Festival in this part of northeast India. Women, wonderfully decorated in the wonderful silk dress and gold ornament, while men show up in silk dhotis, waist-coats, plumed turbans and traditional ornaments to perform various rites and dance together.

Aoling Festival, Nagaland

A popular festival in April to be celebrated in the Mon district of Nagaland in North East India, Aoling is the festival of the ferocious Konyak Tribes – headhunter tribes of Nagaland. They now spend most of their time

doing agriculture activities, drinking alcohol, smoking opium, also hunting, which is done occasionally. They celebrate the festival to mark the beginning of spring festival every year. Various tourist circuits are organized by the operators showing the best of this part of India to the people during this time.

Chithirai Festival, Tamil Nadu

The festival commemorates the wedding of Lord Shiva (Sundareswarar) and Goddess Meenakshi (Lord Vishnu’s sister). Starting with the flag hoisting ceremony, there are plenty of processions carried out during the festival. Post the wedding of the divine couple, the celebration moves to Kallazhagar Temple in Alagar Hills close to Madurai.

Ooty Mariamman Temple Festival And Coonoor Mariamman Temple Festival, Tamil Nadu

Festivals

Celebrated in the Mariamman Temples of Ooty and Coonoor, this festival commemorates Mother Durga who represents three powers called Itcha Sakti, Gnana Sakti, and Kriya Sakti. People come together to organize the festivities by holding processions across Ooty and Coonoor. And it is a visual treat to the eyes of everyone present around.

Kadammanitta Padayani, Kerala

Celebrated on the first day of the month of Medam as per the Malayalam calendar, this week-long festival in Kerala is organized when it is believed that the sun comes in the constellation of Aries, as per the western calendar. During the festive time, there are plenty of events organized in Kerala which celebrates the rich culture and traditions of the state.

Mopin Festival, Arunachal Pradesh

Mopin Festival of Arunachal Pradesh is another delightful celebration that makes you have an awesome time amid the captivating

beauty of North-East India. It is celebrated by the people of Along, Basar, and Bame as a harvest festival and is believed by locals as a measure to keep the evil spirits away.

Sankat Mochan Music Festival, Varanasi

The festival gives you a chance to enjoy the soulful raga-based compositions by the popular classical musicians of India

Naba Barsha, West Bengal

If you want to witness the true vibe of West Bengal then you can surely plan your visit during Naba Barsha, the time when the entire

Festivals

state welcomes the New Year according to Bengali calendar. Houses and market areas are decorated with festivity across the streets of West Bengal.

Urs Festival, Ajmer

Urs is amongst the most popular festivals of Rajasthan that is celebrated in Ajmer in the memory of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Apart from mass prayers and other rituals, the festival also makes you listen to the exclusive Sufi Qawwalis by popular artists.

Kollam Pooram, Kollam

Kollam Pooram is a weeklong annual festival that is organised at Asramam Maidan in Kollam to celebrate the presence of Lord Krishnaswamy, the one who resides in the

popular Sri Krishnaswamy temple. During the festival, the idol of the temple is taken on a grand palanquin which is followed by devotees performing rituals, dancers and musicians paying their tribute through their art, and decorated elephants; giving a massive outlook to the festival.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne and wears

He

has expressed his gratitude to Sikh volunteers

In keeping with the Sikh New Year celebrations, the Prime Minister honoured the Sikh community for ten years of “extraordinary” volunteer efforts. Sikh Volunteers Australia has celebrated ten years of providing food and support to Australians in need during natural disasters.

Alongside Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Bruce MP Julian Hill, Anthony Albanese celebrated Sikh Vaisakhi at Casey, in southeast Melbourne, on Sunday. In addition, Mr. Albanese wore a turban to commemorate the Sikh Volunteers’ achievement of a milestone in community service.

Mr Albanese described Vaisakhi as an occasion of great religious significance to Sikh Australians but reserved special praise for Sikh Volunteers. “They do extraordinary work,” Mr Albanese said.

“During the pandemic they provided food for students who were in desperate need for that support. During the bushfires, during floods.

“Wherever there are issues confronting Australians, we see the best of the Australian character and there’s no community organisation that has done more than Sikh Volunteers Australia.

“We see them whether it be here in Victoria, or up in Lismore, wherever there are floods or natural weather events, we see

people putting their values into practice by providing that support to their fellow Australians who are in need.” As a thank you for his support, Sikh Volunteers Australia gave the PM a trophy, kirpan (sword), shawl, and a stack of books.

Mr. Albanese had to wear a turban throughout the ceremony because of the

Albanese celebrates Sikh Vaisakhi wears a turban out of respect for their dedication to aiding Australians in need

religious and cultural significance of the kirpan.

Speaking to Mr. Hill, he noted that many communities affected by natural catastrophes now welcomed the presence of Sikh Volunteers Australia.

“(They have) become beloved to Australians, not just here in Victoria, but in New South Wales and across the country for living their values and helping out time after time in natural disasters, the weekly food vans,” he said.

The Melbourne-based operation has cooked and delivered hundreds of thou-

sands of meals across the city and beyond, up to 1500 of them per day during the city’s COVID-19 lockdowns.

It happens just as the volunteer group is probably getting ready to leave for NSW’s flood-affected areas after several days of intense rain. According to Mr. Albanese, the 13 local government areas surrounding the Illawarra, Shellharbour, and Wollongong area have since received disaster assistance.

Funding will also be available for the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury region, and other places that have been negatively affected by similar flooding incidents.

6 carbs I ate and lost 10kgs

By: Poornima Peri

“When we think of weight loss, the first thing that comes to mind is Carbohydrates or Carbs. We look for ways and means of how we can avoid carbs as we consider them as the major reason for our weight gain.

In my journey of losing 30 kgs, at some point, I was also in the same boat and avoided most of the carbs, especially rice. However, little did I realise that being raised in a South Indian family, rice lives in my DNA and I will not be able to sustain myself without rice for a long time. My studies and research allowed me to identify that carbs are indeed good for us, for weight loss and today, I would like to share what I ate through my 30 kgs weight loss journey.

Now don’t be shocked! I know that Carbs have a bad reputation because some of them spike our insulin and blood sugar levels. However, there are certain carbs that actually help in increasing metabolism and fat loss.

And they are-

1. Chickpea (Or Chole)- It helps keep you full for a longer time and helps in a healthy management.

It also provides energy to concentrate on your work without feeling hungry.

2. Potato- Yes, the food that is perceived to be high in carbs, is actually a healthy carb if you’re using boiled potato in preparation.

It not only keeps you full for longer but it also has 92 calories per 2-5 ounce, so you do get a balance of calories as well.

3. Apple and Blueberries- Apples contain soluble fiber which helps in

decreasing belly fat.

Blueberries are low in sugar and it is also a super food that boosts your energy during workout.

4. Spinach- Spinach is a carb that is also rich in protein and fiber.

A cooked bowl of cooked spinach contains 5-6 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber that helps in muscle growth as well as fat loss.

5. Broccoli- It is a non-starchy vegetable that helps in fat loss because of low calories and high fiber. It keeps you full for longer because of slowed digestion.

And lastly, my favourite-

6. White rice- It is a complex carb that is low in fat and easy to digest. It is also gluten-free and rich in Vitamin B and Magnesium.

I eat white rice almost every other day and my weight has been constant for 3 years now.

If you don’t have any specific chronic issue, then include these carbs in your fat loss diet and see the changes.

Follow me at https://www.instagram.com/ poornimahormonecoach/ for tips and knacks to reverse any health conditions that you are currently experiencing.”

Health benefits of having positive Social Interactions

By Ms Anju Mathur

We human beings are social animals and live our entire lives as a part of society and social interactions and social connections has a positive impact on our health. Quality time spent with friends you trust and care about is good for everyone and good for our overall sense of wellbeing and also for our soul. Not meeting anyone and spending too much of time on your own can make anyone feel socially isolated, sad and depressed. It is important to make an effort to spend time with others and find some measure of comfort in your social interactions.

Besides enjoying shared experiences with friends and doing some healthful activities from time to time with friends, our social contacts/interactions bring us actual health benefits as well. Research has shown that by interacting with others, we actually train our brains. Social motivation and social contact can help to improve memory formation and

recall and protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases.

According to Susan Pinker - a developmental psychologist and social science author having face-to-face connection is a human necessity. Of course during COVID period, she states that devising ways of connecting online are good options as well. Susan Pinker in her latest book, The Village Effect, explores about social and face-to-face interactions- how critical they are not only for our short-term happiness, but also for our long-term health benefits. Ms Pinker states that direct personto-person contact triggers parts of our nervous system that releases a “cocktail” of neurotransmitters which assists us to regulate our response to stress and anxiety.

Studies have been conducted that highlights that maintaining close friendships later in life could help to prevent mental decline. Scientists at the Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease Center at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, IL – researched and highlighted that people aged 80 and above, defined as “SuperAgers” - have the mental agility of much younger people, appear to have one thing in common: close friends. Their research found out that ‘’while both SuperAgers and [their peers with average cognitive performance] endorsed high levels of psychological wellbeing, SuperAgers endorsed greater levels of

positive social relationships than their cognitively average-for-age peers.” Social connections have been linked with physical health benefits and more healthful lifestyle and habits. Researchers at Maastricht University Medical Centre in the Netherlands saw that socially active individuals have a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. Studies also revealed that individuals who did not participate in social activities, such as going out with friends or joining a club, had a 60 percent higher risk of developing a condition called “prediabetes,” which generally predates diabetes.

It is also believed that being around people who encourage us to keep healthful habits or achieve challenging lifestyle goals could also help us to remain mindful of our eating, exercise, and other lifestyle-related habits. Then there’s also the importance of enjoying close social ties with family, friends and community members that contributes to our happiness and improves our overall life satisfaction in the long run.

In conclusion there are various positive health factors around keeping and maintaining social interactions - it contributes to our better mental health, promotes a sense of safety, belonging and security and maintaining social connections can lighten our moods and make us feel happier and it is also good for our brain health and can lower the risk of dementia.

Harmony Day NSW Transport 21 March 2024

On 21st March 2024

NSW Transport organised the Harmony Day celebrations at Central Station, Sydney and few other sites. Well known name of our Sydney community Varun Tiwari has been performing at Harmony Day celebration from the last 14 years.Varun finds his passion for dance as the means of spreading the message of the Harmony to everyone and loves to teach his dance moves to all and one.

By Preeti Gupta

The

short reels were doing the rounds in the lead up to the release of the film. They came across as sharp, snazzy and

did certainly entice me to want to make an effort to go out and see the film in my home away from home: Sydney. I’m always up for a good laugh.

Crew:

A FILM REVIEW

The release was on Good Friday and it was showing in the Cinema literally next door!! Well, then a group of us decided to re-create our college time experience of first day first show of a film we looked forward to watching. Depending on our age bracket it was either before Dolby or after the Multiplex Cinemas. The tickets had either been Rs 2 to 65 for a balcony. That should very much give you an idea of the age range in the group. The film is an attempt to fit the female desi version of the Clooney & Pitt heist noir ‘Ocean’s Eleven’. The film does not disappoint as far as the performances of the cast is concerned. Not just the main cast but also the supporting cast, they were all fabulous.

I thought the triumvirate of Tabu, Kareena and Kriti rose to the occasion and delivered a performance befitting of their calibre. Though the writers could have given them sharper lines and those gags could have been ‘rolling on the floor laughing’ kind rather than the ‘laugh out loud’ kind. The supporting cast of Diljit Dosanjh as the Customs Officer is endearing and Kriti’s love interest, Kapil Sharma exudes a sense of ease as Tabu’s husband, Trupti Khamkar as the SI and Garima as the spoilt Papa ki Pari with really

funny lines were all brilliant and a treat to watch.

The storyline is sort of predictable. Though the first part is mostly slick and fast paced. There is breaking of the fourth wall by the direct address of the characters and there are flashbacks to reveal the back stories of each character. I’m not sure this was effectively scripted. In this case it was also at the cost of fleshing out the ‘heist’ aspect of the narrative. The second part wasn’t as slick, the opportunity for it to be a phenomenal comic heist genre is lost. Though the music is very appropriate and the glamming up of the girls is undeniably superlative. Lately, I have noticed the ‘not so subtle’ advertising of products in Hindi films and here it was through taking selfies with either the branded items or the outlets or both!

Coming back to the film, without giving much away, it is definitely worth as an evening out and a big screen watch with your girlfriends. The chemistry amongst the actors is superb and they enhance and add to each other’s performances.

To use aviation parlance; take off was good, the flight was a bit bumpy and the landing was happy.

Overall rating is 7.5/10

Saree Club Celebrates International Women’s Day

By: Ravinder Kaur Bali

“The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”Gloria Steinem

It has been over a century since the International Women’s Day became a part of the annual global calendar. It is timely therefore, that its theme this year was about inspiring inclusion of, and investment in women. The theme aligned beautifully with the credo of the Saree Club, Sydney, where the clockwork functioning of the Club as a community organisation devolves not with one individual, but with several, all from diverse backgrounds, who each bring their special skills to bear. It was with this ‘inclusive group’ that the Saree Club again organised the 2024 IWD celebrations, one of its several signature events through the year. The venue of choice was the Madison Centre, Dural, and the date 17th March.

The ticketed event was quickly sold out, with a full house totalling 150 women. In addition to regular members, we had ladies from the Pink Sari project, as well as Kittu Randhawa who heads ICSA, the Saree Club’s charity of choice. The program began with a welcome address by Poornima Menon , where

she spoke about the theme for the IWD, its increasing relevance to our times, and how the Saree Club had implemented an investment in its members since its inception.

Saree Club’s event was a celebration of womanhood and began on the right ‘note’ with Sonali Saxena belting out a welcoming foot-tapping Bollywood number from the yester-years. This was followed by the saree stories of five ladies drawn from different tables, the common thread in these stories being how each one’s saree spoke to them from a place of love.

Entrée was served while we reflected on the saree stories, and as we returned to our tables, Rupa Parthasarathy took the stage, to talk about the Pink Sari initiative of the NSW government aimed at educating women of Indian and Sri Lankan descent about the benefits of timely breast screening. Rupa spoke of her personal battle following her mother’s diagnosis, and death, from breast cancer, and of her unwavering commitment to the Pink Sari cause. This was followed by the rendering of a popular ghazal by your truly, whose lyrics, I felt, truly embodied a woman’s need for courage and knowledge in pursuit of her destiny.

Poornima took the stage again, to acknowledge those in her team that she counted on, to inspire, to assist, and to execute all the tasks that made the Saree Club the inclusive space that it was. She then called on four Club mem-

bers, namely Winky Gill, Yamini Hemanth, Dipika Gandhi and Tanya Talwar, and each of them shared heart-warming stories that spoke of their personal take on the IWD and its significance for them.

Next came the highlight of the day, the presentation of a cheque valued at $1500 to Kittu Randhawa, founder and managing director of ICSA (The Indian Sub-Continental Crisis & Support Agency), the first NGO in Australia for South Asian Communities established in 2014 in response to the gaps and inadequacies of available support systems. The cheque was graciously received by Kittu and her team, which, among others, included Menaka Cooke.

Next on the program was fun and games, which got underway with the one-minute game where each table was required to list as many items of a particular kind as could be remembered in one minute. This led to much hurrying, scurrying and worrying as each table tried to outsmart the other. The totals of four such lists were compiled to arrive at the winning table while a delicious spread of a lunch got under way. At the same time, the photo session was announced so as to ease the long queues at the buffet tables. Vikram Bagga, our photographer for the day, who had been busy taking pictures of the proceedings now got swamped as the ladies made a bee line to have their pics taken.

With pics taken, and tummies satiated, everyone settled down for the second game, that of putting together a jig-saw puzzle that spelled out a quote relevant to the day, its author’s name already provided. Designed painstakingly by Dipika Gandhi, the game

delivered its pleasant surprise for Poornima when a quote of hers was read out at one of the tables.

The afternoon drew to a riotous close with Tambola and the Raffle Draw, the prizes sponsored by some of the members and guests. Chief among these were Kebabiya, whose owner Sona Rawal generously provided 3 dining vouchers valued at $100 each. Likewise, two sarees came from Apurva Kardekar of Chaitrangan, two raffle prizes from Jigna Shah, one saree from Kiran Goli of OzIndia Bazaar, and two hampers with Indian snacks from yours truly. There were other prizes from anonymous donors. Yojana Pareek of Sterling Migration sponsored

all of the Tambola Prizes. The celebrations concluded with a surprise gift each for the Saree Club team who work throughout the year to make each event a resounding success.

Keeping to the time limits of a popular venue, the Saree Club stalwarts all busied themselves in tidying up and hurrying the members and guests to the outdoors, where the sylvan surrounds of Madison continued to ring with the laughter of ladies as they posed for still more pictures. The clouds had cleared, and the sun came out too, in a fitting finale to a lovely day meaningfully spent.

To mark the celebration of Holi Festival, Madame Tussauds Sydney welcomes Hindi actor Varun Dhawan’s wax figure to the new Bollywood set!

Varun BOLLYWOOD SUPERSTAR

Dhawan lands down under!

In celebration of the Holi festival, Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan has made his debut in the brand-new Bollywood set at Madame Tussauds Sydney. The heartthrob’s wax figure will be at the Darling Harbour attraction from Wednesday, 27 March.

“To help recognise and celebrate the Holi festival, we’re so excited to add Varun Dhawan to the Madame Tussauds Sydney family and unveil our brand-new Bollywood set,” said Anika Schmitzer, Operations Manager at Madame Tussauds Sydney.

“We’re already home to Indian stars, including Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Sachin Tendulkar, and now we can include Varun in this amazing line-up of celebrities! This is huge for us, our Indian guests, and Bollywood fans, who love to see big stars at Madame Tussauds Sydney.”

Varun worked with the Madame Tussauds sculpting team to create the dynamic dance pose, the ‘Disco

Over 200 measurements were taken during a 5-hour sitting process to create the figure, previously housed at Madame Tussauds Delhi.

Deewane,’ from his box-office hit ‘Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania’, which inspired his look - distressed jeans, a red satin shirt and a leather vest. His figure stands proudly in the vibrant, new Bollywood set – a permanent addition to Madame Tussauds Sydney, decorated with colourful garlands which is inspired by his many romantic comedy movies.

Over 200 measurements were taken during a 5-hour sitting process to create the figure, previously housed at Madame Tussauds Delhi.

Commenting on coming face-to-face with his figure in 2018, Varun Dhawan said, “I visited Madame Tussauds when I was six, and I can’t believe I can be the one to stand next to the figures of various celebrities and world leaders one day.”

Next to Varun is the wax figure of good friend and fellow Bollywood star, Shah Rukh Khan – providing the perfect backdrop for fans to snap pictures with the two stars.

To purchase tickets to see Varun Dhawan’s wax figure or for more information on the celebrities, you can meet them at Madame Tussauds Sydney. Visit www.madametussauds. com/sydney.

Sydney Royal Easter

With another year rolling ahead, the month of Easter brings back the joy of the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

By: Anchal Banga

Aparticularly famous attraction in the heart of Sydney’s Entertainment centre, record number entries bustled through the gates over the 12 day run with over 800,000 people attending. Despite concerns raised about the Show falling in a non-school holiday period, families still kept the numbers high by joining in on the fun.

The traditional focus of the Easter show being its agricultural roots saw a huge crowd boom once again as people gathered from all over to sit back and

Easter Show

enjoy the various shows planted the Olympic Park venue. With over 14,000 animals available over the 12 day course, it made for an interactive experience for children and adults alike to gain insight into this important part of Australian culture. Of course this allowed relief for families suffering in the cost of living crisis currently present.

In addition to this, this year’s Easter Show saw an introduction of the international women’s wood chopping event. This indeed demonstrated a higher level of gender inclusivity carefully considered by the organisers.

The Grand Parade, established in the Easter Show since 1907 made a comeback once again with spectacular displays and performances with daring circus acts that left the audiences in awe.

But of course, the loud colours, nerve wrecking rides and arcade style games remained a crowd favourite, especially

with the youngsters gathering and lining up all day to join the experience.

The abundance of food options available on site allowed audiences to engage their taste buds in several delightful treats with flavourful meals readily available. A must have from the Easter Show being the show bags had a variety of options to choose from, displaying something for everyone to have a look at and take back home.

Picture perfect skies and light breezes made the ideal weather for the Easter Show to be enjoyed and cherished by all.

A Grand Celebration of Sports and

The 36th Australian Sikh Games in Adelaide, South

By: Daljeet Bakshi

The 36th Australian Sikh Games, held in Adelaide, South Australia from 29th to 31st March 2024, brought together a diverse range of attendees, participants, and cultural enthusiasts. With nearly 100,000 people, including locals, interstate visitors, and overseas players, the event showcased the spirit of sportsmanship, cultural heritage, and community unity. This write-up highlights the key aspects and accomplishments of this three-day extravaganza.

The games witnessed the enthusiastic participation of approximately 5,000 sports persons, comprising both local teams and players from interstate and overseas.

Thirteen different games, including kabaddi, cricket, soccer, and athletics, showcased the athletic prowess and competitive spirit of the participants. The games not only provided a platform for athletes to showcase

and Culture:

South Australia

their skills but also injected millions into the economy of South Australia through increased tourism, accommodation bookings, and local business engagement.

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of the Members of Parliament ( Federal and state ) & other dignitaries , who were treated to mesmerizing cultural performances by local cultural groups. The vibrant and colorful displays showcased the rich Sikh heritage and traditions, captivating the audience and setting the tone for the entire event.

Marvellous Community Meals and

Volunteer efforts .One of the defining features of the Australian Sikh Games was the provision of free vegetarian community meals. Teams from local Gurudwara Sahebs in Adelaide, along with hundreds of dedicated volunteers, worked tirelessly to serve full meals, tea, snacks, chabeel (a traditional sweet water drink), water, and fruits throughout the three-day event. This act of seva (selfless service) exemplified the Sikh values of generosity and community welfare.

Cultural Stage, Antique Display, and Exhibitions. The event featured a separate cultural stage where various cultural performances took place, highlighting the diversity and vibrancy of Punjabi traditions. Additionally, antique displays showcasing Punjabi cultural heritage,as well as exhibi-

tions of tractors, trucks, and bikes, added an element of novelty and interest to the event. This blend of cultural heritage and modernity created a unique and immersive experience for attendees.

The venue also hosted a variety of food stalls, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. Visitors had the opportunity to savor traditional Punjabi cuisine as well as other popular dishes. In addition, various business stalls provided a platform for local entrepreneurs and organizations to showcase their products and services, contributing to the overall vibrancy and economic impact of the event.

Women networking event, Sikh Forum and Cultural Night. To foster intellectual discussions and promote Sikh values, a Sikh

forum was organized, attracting experts and participants from various fields. This platform allowed for meaningful exchanges and reflections on Sikh principles and their relevance in contemporary society. Furthermore, a cultural night showcased Punjabi folk dances, music, and performances, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Sikh community.

The 36th Australian Sikh Games received significant support and recognition from various sponsors. The Government of South Australia played a crucial role as a sponsor, demonstrating its commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement. Quantum Group served as the presenting sponsor, while other major sponsors included Ekam Groceries, CS Asset Holding, and KT Crash Repairs and others . Their

contributions greatly facilitated the successful execution of the event.

The 36th Australian Sikh Games in Adelaide, South Australia, epitomized the spirit of sportsmanship, cultural pride, and community harmony. With a massive turnout of attendees, enthusiastic sports participation, engaging cultural performances, and the provision of free community meals, the event left a lasting impression on all who participated. The success of the games underscores the importance of promoting inclusivity, celebrating diversity, and strengthening community bonds through sports and cultural events. As the event evolves in the future, it is essential to ensure equitable support for all games and further enhance the overall management and governance for an even more remarkable

Kesari Pista Phirni

Phirni is a delicacy from the state of Punjab and is made with grounded rice and thickened milk.

Kesar Pista Phirni is a delightful variation of the phirni loaded with the aroma of saffron and the indulgent flavor of pista.

It is best to serve Phirni in a small earthen pot for an authentic feel, however, you can use your regular serving bowls too. Make sure you refrigerate it before serving.

Health Benefits

Kesar pista phirni is a good source of calcium and protein as it is prepared from milk and contains the double benefits of kesar and pistas. Kesar contains a carotene which protects against cancer. It is used to treat memory loss and in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Warm saffron milk helps in protecting against cold. Pistachios prevent cell damage, protect eyes against damage, and protect against high blood pressure.

Ingredients for Kesari Pista Phirni Recipe

4Saffron a few strands

4Milk 1 litre

4Basmati rice 50 grams

4Sugar 1 cup

4Green cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon

4Rose water a few drops

4Pistachios 1 tablespoon

Method

4Bring the milk to a boil in a deep pan. Lower the heat and let it simmer till it reduces a little. Grind the soaked rice to a coarse paste.

4Add a little milk to it and mix to make it a little thinner. Add this to the reduced milk in the pan and cook, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

4Add saffron and mix. Add sugar and cook till it thickens. Add green cardamom powder and rose water and mix. Take it off the heat. Add pistachios and mix.

4Pour into individual kasoris and set aside to cool. Chill and serve.