On 19 August 2025, the Hindu Council of Australia participated in a key consultation led by Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP) regarding the critical shortage of burial and cremation space across Sydney. The proposed redevelopment of the Carnarvon Golf Course
into a modern memorial park has sparked important conversations across faith and cultural communities.
The Hindu Council was well represented at the meeting, with community leaders and members coming together to ensure the voice of Hindus in Australia is heard. Attendees included:
Satish Bhadranna, Vijji Sampath, Arup Dutta, Saraswathi, Dr Nisha Singh, Dr Hemani Chaturvedi, Yogendra Khale, Jagdish Ram Pandit, Venkataramni Gurukul, Devendra Sharma Gurukul, Rami Gurukul, Nihal Agar, Sewa Singh, Amit Gosawami, Siva Srinivas, Ramachandra Atreya, Dr Sunil Vyas, Sreenadh Brahmapuram, and Sai Paravastu.
The discussions highlighted the unique needs of the Hindu community, particularly around funeral rites, cremation practices, and the importance of dedicated facilities that respect spiritual traditions. Sai Paravastu, National President of the Hindu Council, reinforced the need for:
-
Dedicated spaces for Hindu rituals within crematoria and cemeteries.
-
Allowing family participation in lighting the sacred fire or cremation machine.
-
Options for both traditional wood-based and modern electric cremation.
-
Ongoing engagement between MMP, the government, and Hindu organisations.
This consultation marks a significant step in ensuring Hindu voices are part of Sydney’s long-term planning for memorial and burial spaces. The Hindu Council will continue to work closely with government and community partners to safeguard dignity, tradition, and respect for all.
