Benalla came alive with colour, music, and festive cheer as the Benalla Migrants Association Inc hosted Diwali @ Mural on 3 November, celebrating the Festival of Lights with a vibrant showcase of Indian subcontinental culture.
Among the highlights was a soulful performance by Bishesh Gyawali, a Nepali musician and flutist based in Australia, who captivated audiences with his blend of Indian classical ragas and folk melodies.
Gyawali performed the renowned Carnatic Raaga “Hansadhwani”, known as the Raaga of Happiness, followed by traditional tunes from Nepal that resonated deeply with the crowd. The Raaga’s bright and uplifting notes echoed the festival’s spirit of joy, light, and new beginnings.
“Performing at Diwali @ Mural was an incredibly fulfilling experience,” Gyawali told The Australia Today.
“The Raaga Hansadhwani carries such positivity and joy, and it felt beautiful to share that energy with the community during the Festival of Lights.”
The celebration featured an array of classical and contemporary performances, from Bharat Natyam and Nrityam to energetic Bollywood, Tollywood, and Bhangra numbers.
Visitors also enjoyed authentic Indian cuisine from local food trucks before the night concluded with a spectacular fireworks display over the river, symbolising unity and the triumph of light over darkness.
Reflecting on the evening, Gyawali added, “What made the event truly special was the sense of togetherness — people from different cultures coming together to celebrate light, music, and happiness. It was a reminder of how art and culture can connect hearts beyond boundaries.”
Diwali @ Mural has become one of the most anticipated cultural celebrations in the north-east, drawing thousands of locals and visitors to the lake precinct as part of the Benalla Festival.
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