FICQ hosts Diwali 2021 in Brisbane

Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland organised their annual flagship mega event Diwali 2021 - Indian Festival of Lights at King George Square in Brisbane CBD on November 5.

With music, Bollywood and Indian dances and food stalls, the event, as every year, was a mega success, despite COVID restrictions. The day, which started at 11am and finished at 11pm, was full of fun, including non-stop cultural performances, various stalls for foods, jewellery, clothes, artifacts and much more.

The day started with lighting of the lamp and the inauguration of the Diwali souvenir by the special guests, advisors, and EC members. Later on in the day, a citizenship ceremony for 99 new citizens of Australia was organised. The President of FICQ, Mr. Shyam Das, Mr. Graham Perrett MP, the presiding officer, Mr. Peter Russo MP, and Cr Angela Owen welcomed all the new citizens of Australia.

All the dignitaries started arriving for the Indian traditional High Tea at 4.30pm, including the Minister for Children, Youth Justice, and Multicultural Affairs Hon. Leanne Linard, in a saree, represented the Premier of Queensland. Lord Mayor of Brisbane Cr. Adrian Schrinner and Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner also arrived in Indian attire. Mr. Trevor Evans MP was representing the Prime Minister of Australia Hon. Scott Morrison MP. Mr. Graham Perrett MP represented the Federal opposition leader Hon. Anthony Albanese MP. Mr. John-Paul Langbroek MP represented the State Opposition Leader, Mr. David Crisafulli. Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr. Brian Swan represented the Police Commissioner of Queensland. Cr Teresa Harding, the Mayor of Ipswich, and many more dignitaries from different backgrounds were among the guests.

The official ceremony started at 6.00 pm and finished at 8.00 pm. In his speech, the FICQ President, Mr. Shyam Das, highlighted the importance of celebrating Diwali, which means the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, and also emphasised on promotion of multiculturalism and getting vaccinated. Then began the mesmerising evening with more colourful and exciting cultural performances, DJ, Dhol, and much more, with the effect that the crowd danced till the end.

FICQ President Mr Shyam Das appreciated the big crowd turnout in a big way and said in a statement: “FICQ thanks everyone for their tremendous support. The Committee members and volunteers of FICQ left no stone unturned to make this iconic event a great success, and we’re delighted that it could bring out the true spirit of Diwali among the audience despite COVID 19 hovering over our heads.

“People loved everything about the event from performances, decorations, food stalls and above all the presentation of the event. FICQ extend their sincere thanks to all the guests, volunteers and performers.”