What began as a small group of Haryanvis coming together in 2018 has blossomed into one of Australia’s most active diaspora organisations. The Association of Haryanvis in Australia (AHA) recently celebrated that journey with Multicultural Saanjh 2026 — an evening that brought together government representatives, diplomats, multicultural communities and families for a colourful celebration of everything that makes Australia’s diversity tick.
NSW MP John Graham, representing Premier Chris Minns, attended as Chief Guest. Speaking on behalf of the Premier, Minister Graham praised community organisations like AHA for their vital role in strengthening New South Wales’ multicultural fabric.
“Events like Multicultural Saanjh bring people together, celebrate cultural diversity and help build stronger, more connected communities,” he noted.
Also in attendance was Dr. S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, who commended AHA’s efforts in promoting Indian culture while embracing Australian values. He highlighted the organisation’s role in strengthening people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Traditional folk dances from India, Nepal and Thailand took audiences on a journey through different traditions — all united by shared values of respect, family and community.
The AHA International Award of Honour was awarded to Dr. Jagbir Rathee, an internationally acclaimed Haryanvi folk artist, poet, actor and cultural ambassador. The award recognised his lifelong dedication to preserving Haryanvi language, literature and folk culture.
“It is encouraging to witness younger generations of the Indian diaspora embracing their cultural roots while contributing positively to Australia’s multicultural landscape,” Dr. Rathee said. “Culture is a powerful force that connects communities across borders and generations.”
During his Australian visit, community members were also treated to a special screening of Baingan, Dr. Rathee’s latest Haryanvi feature film — a rare opportunity to engage with contemporary regional Indian cinema.
Beyond the dance and festivities, Multicultural Saanjh also shone a light on AHA’s broader contributions to Australian society. Since 2018, the organisation has run blood donation drives, educational programs, youth engagement activities, migrant support initiatives and community outreach during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event also showcased growing national collaboration within AHA. A delegation from AHA Victoria, led by Victorian President Vijaypal Redhu, made the trip from Melbourne to support their NSW counterparts.
AHA National President Sewa Singh summed up the organisation’s ethos:
“Australia’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths. Through events like Multicultural Saanjh, we create opportunities for people from different backgrounds to celebrate together, learn from one another and build friendships that extend beyond cultural boundaries.”
He added: “For nine years, AHA has worked to preserve cultural heritage while embracing the values that define modern Australia. We remain committed to creating opportunities that strengthen social cohesion and contribute to an even more inclusive Australia.”
Held at Roselea Community Centre in Beecroft, the event was supported by Multicultural NSW through the Stronger Together Festival and Events Grant Program.
It was coordinated by AHA NSW President Bhupesh Sharma, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and executive members including Ajay Dhull, Vibhor Sharma, Rajiv Gupta, Pankaj Mittal, Lalit Uttam, Amardeep Malik, Sanjay Parashar, Mayank Sangwan, Ramesh Kundu and many others.
Grassroots celebrations like Multicultural Saanjh remind us that community is built not just through policy — but through people coming together, one namaste at a time.
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