Sydney’s Diwali season is off to a vibrant start, with the Hindu Council of Australia bringing together political leaders, community representatives and families for celebrations that showcased the festival’s traditions and its spirit of togetherness.
At a gathering at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct on 16 October, NSW Premier Chris Minns joined the Hindu community to mark the Festival of Lights. NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and NSW Parramatta MP Donna Davies also attended the event, which celebrated Hindu traditions and the contribution of the community to Australia’s multicultural life.
The festive mood carried into western Sydney, where the Hindu Council’s Deepavali Fair filled Blacktown Showground with a programme of cultural performances, food, family entertainment and traditional festivities. Held on Sunday, 25 October, the public event featured attractions including a Ramayan presentation, Ravan Dahan, amusement rides and fireworks, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the celebrations together.
The Blacktown event drew a range of political representatives, including Premier Minns, Cabinet Secretary and Federal MP for Parramatta Dr Andrew Charlton representing the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, India’s Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, Senator Dave Sharma, Federal MP for Berowra Julian Leeser, NSW Opposition leader Kellie Sloane and NSW MPs Charishma Kaliyanda, Warren Kirby and Stephen Bali also attended the event.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is associated with the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Families mark the occasion in many ways, from lighting traditional lamps and sharing sweets to gathering for prayers and festive meals. Its message of hope, renewal and goodwill has helped make the festival a familiar part of Australia’s multicultural calendar.
From temple gatherings to vibrant community fairs, Sydney’s Diwali celebrations offer more than festive colour and entertainment. They provide opportunities to share traditions, pass cultural heritage on to younger generations and welcome people from different backgrounds to join in the festivities — spreading the joy, hope and optimism that Diwali represents.
Beyond these gatherings, community organisations and local councils have been hosting Diwali celebrations across Sydney and other parts of Australia, with more events planned in the days ahead as the festive season builds towards the festival of lights.
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