Festival of Smiles

Scenes from the Hindu Council’s Diwali Mela, held at Parramatta Stadium on 11 Oct 2009

Yes, despite the vagaries of the weather, the mood at the Diwali Mela 2009 remained cheerful and upbeat. Smiling faces everywhere were testimony to the wellorganised and entertaining cultural program, the variety of food and the events, which had something for everyone.

The Parramatta Stadium saw thousands of people, for a change enjoying the festive atmosphere, instead of a game.

The food stalls were hugely popular as always, and fashion shows and Bollywood dances marked the lively onstage entertainment.

Said Laurie Ferguson, representing Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, “I hope this festival stays in Parramatta, a more central site for the large Indian population of Sydney.”

Phillip Ruddock, representing Malcolm Turnbill, Federal Leader of the Opposition said India has always been a very special place for him. And the Mela was indeed a glimpse of the vibrancy and colour of India. Also present were David Lawrence Borger, Representing NSW Premier Nathan Rees and the member for Granville, and Barry

O’Farrell, Leader of State Opposition, among others.

Amitdas Gupta, Consul General of India, in his speech, took the opportunity to touch upon the issues the community has faced in recent weeks, particularly with the students. He added however, that he was encouraged by the support the community had received from the government in the matter.

On an optimistic note Tanya Gadiel, Member for Parramatta said, “This celebration is a timely reminder for us to focus on good things in our life and stop dwelling on those which disappoint us and leave us wanting.”

As dusk fell, the crowdstired by this time by all the merry-making and stuffing themselves silly with mithai and snacks - settled down to watch the big baddie Raavan burn and crash to the ground. The Hindus gathered there rejoiced - all the evil in the world had been symbolically brought to an end, and the world was rid of all negative energies. To celebrate, the night sky lit up in bright colours, and brought even greater cheer. Happy Diwali!