By : Surinder Jain.
Hindu Council of Australia in association with Cherrybrook shopping centre celebrated Diwali festival inside the shopping centre on 28th October 2018. Space inside of the shopping centre was converted into a stage for performances, a Saree tying workshop, a Diya painting workshop for children, a free henna workshop and a flower Rangoli that will stay in the centre for a few days even after the festival is over.
Cherrybrook Village Shopping Centre
Federal MP Julian Leeser and state MP Damian Tudehope were present in the event. MP Damien congratulated the Indian community for organizing Diwali festival first time ever in the suburb of Brookvale. MP Leeser comended the Indian and Hindu community in Cherrybrook and invited more Indians to come and live in this area.
Federal MP Julian Leeser in a Kurta saying Happy Diwali
MP Leeser said that Indians and Australians have been working arm in arm since the first World war and that tradition of working together continues till day.
Federal MP Julian Leeser and State MP Damien Tudehope dancing to a Bollywood tune
Both MPs danced with bollywood dance performers on music tunes and stayed until the closing time. Many onlookers who had come to do the shopping joined many of the workshops and got a taste of Diwali festivities. A special Rangoli workshop was arranged to teach people how to make a Rangoli.
Rangoli making workshop
A Hindu Art exhibition was also held. Paintings of Rama and Krishna were on display for all to see and admire. A mini Ram Leela with Ravan and Ram was held and people were queuing up to take a selfie with both.
Henna workshop
Free Henna shop was quite a hit with both Indian and Australian residents of Cherrybrook.
Teaching how to tie a Saree to young Australians
The Cherrybrook team of Hindu Council who made this festival a success.
