The festival commemorated 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the temple in 1026 by Mahmud of Ghazni, an event that began a long period during which the shrine was damaged and rebuilt several times.

The speaker claims Lord Ram then instructed his forces to load the weapons onto ships and throw them thousands of kilometres away to ensure they would never be misused.

The inscription marks a major cultural milestone for India, recognising Deepavali as a living tradition that supports social cohesion, strengthens community bonds, and carries deep spiritual, cultural, and social significance.

The festivities were graced by Senator Paul Scarr, MPs Margie Nightingale and Julie-Ann Campbell, representing the Prime Minister’s Office, as well as local area councillors and a large gathering of the Indian community and friends of India.

India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, performed aarti at the temple and offered prayers for peace and global harmony.

Surveillance video shows the suspects using a drill or saw to try to open the metal safe, with sparks flying intermittently for over three minutes.

“More importantly, Sewa Diwali is a platform where Australians of all backgrounds can come together in harmony to serve the nation we live in, Australia.”

Designed as a sanctuary for connection, learning, and spiritual growth, the space will host community gatherings, workshops, and cross-cultural events across the Swan region.

The decision to return the Cham artefacts to Cambodia, and to exclude Vietnam and Laos, highlights how contemporary politics shape our understanding of cultural heritage.

From traditional attire to regional songs and dances, the performances reflected India’s vast cultural variety, while the packed audience showed strong community support for the artists.