SAISH (Sydney Australians of Indian Subcontinental Heritage) will hold its annual Deepavali celebration in Sydney on 31 October 2026, bringing together community members to celebrate Indian subcontinental heritage, culture and community participation.
The organisation has marked Deepavali, the Hindu festival of lights, for more than a decade, with its 12th celebration in 2025 attended by the Consul General of India in Sydney, Dr S. Janakiraman and representatives from local councils, the Hindu Council of Australia, temples and community organisations.
SAISH says its members worked with community organisations, leaders and the NSW Government to introduce a Deepavali celebration at NSW Parliament House in 2003, including the illumination of the building.
The organisation says this was the first Deepavali illumination of a parliament in the Western world. A marble plaque recognising the contribution of the Indian subcontinent community was installed at Parliament House in August 2007 following SAISH’s efforts. It has also been involved in cultural celebrations, interfaith activities and community initiatives, including ongoing yoga services in Strathfield.
In 2026, the organisation is introducing the SAISH Community Excellence Awards, recognising achievements across education, professional life and community service. The three categories are the Student High Achievement Award, Professional High Achievement Award and Highly Reputable Community Service Provider Award. SAISH says the initiative aims to recognise high achievers, encourage mentor-mentee relationships and strengthen community engagement.
Nominations are open to Australian residents and close on 15 August 2026. Nomination forms are available through the QR code on the SAISH Excellence Awards brochure above. This is a ticketed event.
In his address during last year’s celebrations, SAISH President Raj Datta recalled that the organisation was formed in 2013 to promote traditional culture and values and to provide services to all Australians. He listed joint work with the Hindu Council of Australia, BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, Shridi Sai Temple, Mukti Gupteswara Temple, Sydney Murugan Temple, the United Indian Association, NSW governments and local councils.
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