Tamil kids shine on annual day

The thirty-second annual day of Sydney Balar Malar Tamil Educational Association (SBMTEA) was celebrated in a grand manner at the Granville Town Hall. Coinciding with Children’s Day, more than 150 families gathered to enjoy a wide variety of cultural performances including dances, dramas and songs presented by Tamil school students. That Tamil is a widely and proudly spoken language in New South Wales could be clearly seen from the great fervour and enthusiasm of those who attended the event. An active member of the NSW Federation of Community Language Schools, Balar Malar is the pioneer Tamil school in Australia, started in 1977 with a vision to promote the Tamil language and culture to young children. Balar Malar is a community organisation, teaching the Tamil language through qualified volunteer teachers at schools in Ashfield, Seven

Hills, Holsworthy, Denistone East and the newly opened Quakers Hill (barely 2 weeks ago). All Balar Malar schools follow the curriculum developed by the NSW Federation of Tamil Schools.

This year’s annual day was hosted by Denistone East School, which has grown not only in strength but also in calibre, largely due to the commitment of the parent volunteer team. The afternoon’s events commenced with the customary lighting of the holy lamp, followed by welcome speeches by the children of Denistone East Balar Malar. The Balar Malar School children performed dances on modern hit songs and old Tamil songs, delighting the audience, both young and old. Dramas acted out by children emphasized the great heritage of the Tamil language and the importance of preserving its culture. Songs written and choreographed by teachers took the audience by storm, with the children danced to their tunes. At the end of the performances, an enticing dinner was catered by Ambi’s restaurant.

After the dinner break, the chief guests Dr K Arangasamy, Maathalai Somu and NSW Federation of Language schools Education Officer Alex di Prinzio honoured the occasion by addressing the gathering. Balar Malar parents and teachers appreciated the opportunity of listening to speeches by these community leaders.

To conclude the annual day, award presentations were made to Balar Malar students for their performance and academic achievements throughout the year. The event was a huge success with parents complimenting the organisers for their efforts in providing well-managed performances and a joyful night.

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