Celebrating diversity: Indian traditional New Year comes alive in Brisbane

Brisbane, April 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Indian Council of Australia, Queensland Inc. (ICAQ) marked a historic milestone by organizing its inaugural event to celebrate the Indian Traditional New Year on April 27, at the picturesque Roma St Parklands. The event, a first of its kind in Brisbane, brought together a tapestry of cultures to commemorate the diverse traditions and customs associated with the Indian New Year.

While Brisbane has played host to various Indian festivities such as Diwali, Holi, and Onam, the absence of a dedicated celebration for the Indian traditional New Year underscored the significance of this inaugural event. The occasion provided a unique opportunity for individuals from different backgrounds to come together and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of India. India, Nepal, and other South Asian countries celebrate their New Year on dates dictated by their respective lunar calendars, adding to the global mosaic of traditional new year observances. Known by different names in different regions across India, including Chaitra Navaratri, Vaisakhi, Gudhi Padwa, Ugadi, Puthandu, Vishu, NabBarsha, Navreh, Bihu, Cheti Chand, Mesha Sankranti, and Sajibu Cheiraoba, these celebrations serve as a testament to the country's cultural diversity and unity in plurality.

The inaugural event, spearheaded by the ICAQ, attracted a distinguished gathering of multicultural community leaders, elected representatives from all tiers of government, and officials from various government departments. Vibrant displays of Indian culture, including traditional attire, music, dance, and culinary delights, illuminated the festivities, highlighting the intrinsic connection between cultural heritage and community cohesion.

Dignitaries, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese MP, premier of Queensland Steven Miles MP, and Councillor for Coorparoo Ward Cr. Fiona Cunningham conveyed their heartfelt congratulations to the ICAQ on hosting the landmark event.

The event commenced with a stirring Welcome to Country and Didgeridoo performance by Uncle Billy Cummings, paying homage to the indigenous heritage of Australia. ICAQ president Parminder Singh, along with ICAQ Patron Ashish Katta and ICAQ Advisor Pinky Singh, extended warm greetings to all attendees, emphasizing the organization's commitment to promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

A diverse array of dignitaries attended the event, which included Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu Bhagotia; Member for Oxley Queensland & Federal Speaker Milton Dick MP; Minister for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability Services, and Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen; Representing David Crisafulli MP, Qld leader of opposition John-Paul Langbroek MP; Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services Bart Mellish; Cr Vicky Howard, Central Ward, Representing the Brisbane City Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner; Mayor Teresa Harding, Ipswich City; Mayor Jos Mitchell, Redland City; Mayor John Raven, Logan City; Cr. Trina Massey, Councillor, The Gabba Ward; Wayne Briscoe Executive Director, Multicultural Affairs; Heath Goldfinch, COO at Multicultural Australia; Inspector Mat Ryan, Patrol Group Inspector, Inner West Patrol Group, North Brisbane District; Dr Anil Dalsania; Dr Ram Mohan; Gati Krushna Mishra, and Sushil Kumar Goel.. Their presence underscored the significance of the event in fostering dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect among diverse communities.