3000 attend HSV Holi mela

An atmosphere of joy and celebration added to the religious element of holi at the Shiva Vishnu Temple

It was a day of festivity at the Shiva Vishnu Temple at Boundary Road in Carrum Downs, as devotees and attendees enjoyed the Holi mela organized by the Hindu Society of Victoria (HSV). Approximately 3000 people attended the event which started at 10am and went on through the day, concluding at 4:30pm. The Holika havan was performed at noon, which included a pooja at which the priest explained the significance of the Holi puja and narrated the story of the origins of the festival. This was followed by a bonfire, in keeping with the tradition of the festival.

The Holi mela was honoured by the presence of Cr Sandra Mayer, City of Frankston, Mayor of Carrum Downs; Cr Amanda Stapledon, Mayor of the City of Casey; Cr Jennifer Yang, Mayor of the City of Mannigham; Mrs Inga Peulich, State Member for South-East Metropolitan and representing State Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship; Mr Geoff Ablett, Councillor, City of Casey; Mr Chin Tan, VMC Commissioner; and Mr Rakesh Kawra, Consul General of India. They spoke briefly on their pleasure at attending the event, and were offered a tour of the newly established cultural centre within the temple’s premises.

A cheerful atmosphere prevailed as people arrived to do archana at the temple, and then went out to partake in the festivities. They had the opportunity to play Holi, enjoying throwing coloured powder in a spirit of joy and dancing to the music played by the DJ throughout the day. Food stalls abounded with vegetarian Indian delicacies on sale, including the temple’s stall selling idlis, dosas and other items. Other stalls had clothing, jewellery, games on display and were well patronized.

“The event was an out-andout success, with more people attending than we expected and as usual, the SES did a great job of controlling traffic,” said Raghu Pendyala, President of HSV. “I thank the committee members and volunteers for doing a terrific job, and all those who attended and added to the success of the event.”