The Haryanvi Community of Australia welcomed Haryana Legislative Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, Deputy Speaker Krishan Lal Middha, and MLA Yoginder Singh Rana in a reception that organisers said was aimed at strengthening ties between Haryana’s leadership and the diaspora in Australia.

The gathering brought together community leaders, business figures, religious representatives and local elected officials, with attendees describing the evening as a celebration of cultural identity as much as an official engagement. Many in the room echoed a shared sentiment that the night carried the feel of Haryana far from home — “आज इस हॉल में सिर्फ़ एक डिनर नहीं, हरियाणा की मिट्टी की खुशबू है”.

Speaker Harvinder Kalyan said he was encouraged by the strength of the community and the way Haryanvi identity continues to thrive overseas.

“It is deeply heartening to see the Haryanvi community thriving in Australia while remaining so strongly connected to its roots,” he said.

“You are not just ambassadors of Haryana’s culture, but also contributors to strengthening India’s global presence.”

He said Haryana wanted stronger engagement with its overseas community, as the state focuses on future growth. “The bond between Haryana and its diaspora is built on shared identity, values and pride,” he said.

“We want our overseas community to remain actively connected with Haryana’s growth story and future opportunities.”

Deputy Speaker Krishan Lal Middha described the evening as an emotional moment of connection with people who carry their heritage across borders. “Meeting our community here in Melbourne has been a proud and emotional moment,” he said.

“Even far from home, the spirit of Haryana is alive in your language, traditions and unity.”

He also pointed to the diaspora’s role in shaping how India is represented internationally. “The diaspora plays an important role in building bridges between nations,” Middha said.

“Your achievements bring honour not only to Haryana but to India as a whole.”

Sandeep Dankhar of the Haryanvi Community of Australia:

“For our community, this evening was not just about meeting leaders — it was about reconnecting with our roots. Having the Speaker and Haryana’s leadership here in Melbourne means a great deal to every Haryanvi living in Australia.”

“Our goal is to build a bridge between Haryana and the diaspora. We want our community here to stay connected with their heritage while contributing proudly to Australia’s multicultural society.”

He added, “The overwhelming response shows how deeply people care about their identity and connection to Haryana. This visit has strengthened that bond and inspired the next generation to remain engaged with their culture.”

MLA Yoginder Singh Rana said the reception highlighted the enduring bond between migrants and their homeland, while also creating space for future collaboration. “The warmth and affection shown by the Haryanvi community in Australia reflects the deep emotional bond people carry for their homeland,” he said.

“Events like this strengthen not only cultural connections but also open doors for collaboration in education, business and community development.”

The event was attended by Anish Rajan, Consul General of India in Melbourne, who said diaspora engagement remained a priority and noted the significance of Haryana’s delegation meeting the community in person. “The Indian diaspora in Australia is a source of immense pride for India,” he said.

“The presence of Haryana’s legislative leadership here reflects the importance of engaging directly with our overseas communities.”

Rajan said the Consulate would continue supporting community initiatives and connections across India and Australia.

“The Consulate remains committed to supporting community initiatives and strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Australia,” he said, adding that such gatherings reinforce “the shared democratic values and cultural connections that form the foundation of the India–Australia relationship.”

Local civic leaders also attended, including Cr Pradeep Tiwari, former Mayor of the City of Maribyrnong and a current councillor, and Cr Preet Singh, Deputy Mayor of Wyndham City Council. Diaspora organisations and community leaders were represented along with representatives from religious and cultural institutions.

Organisers said the event was designed to create a direct channel between visiting leaders and Haryanvi Australians, while providing a setting where families could celebrate heritage together.

Mr Dhankar summed it saying

“We are grateful to the Speaker Saheb, Deputy Speaker Middha Ji and Rana Ji for taking the time to engage directly with the community. Their presence has given our diaspora recognition and encouragement.”

Several speakers referenced the sense of “देसी अपनापन” in the room — the feeling that, even in Melbourne, community gatherings can resemble a village chaupal back home.

The evening concluded with thanks to the visiting delegation, the Consulate, local elected representatives, sponsors, volunteers and community members, with organisers describing the reception as a strong step in keeping Haryana’s global community connected, visible and united.

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