The Indian Council of Australia, Queensland (ICAQ) hosted its inaugural Indian Traditional New Year Celebrations at the scenic Roma Street Parklands on Saturday, 27 April 2024. The family-friendly public event, with free entry, brought together a vibrant community for a day of cultural celebration, delicious food, and dazzling performances.
The event was spearheaded by ICAQ President Mr. Parminder Singh and Secretary Mr. Ganesh Deshpande. It received strong support from the Brisbane City Council and the Queensland Government, highlighting the collaborative spirit that underscores multiculturalism in the region.
The festivities attracted a diverse crowd, including local dignitaries and notable political figures. Charis Mullen MP shared a message of support, saying, “Happy Indian New Year! Thank you to the Indian Council of Australia, Queensland for bringing us together for their inaugural New Year Celebrations in the Roma Street Parklands. Wonderful food, performances, and fellowship with our growing Indian diaspora across SEQ.”
Milton Dick MP, who attended the event alongside Charis Mullen MP, John-Paul Langbroek, Bart Mellish MP, Mayor Teresa Harding, Mayor Jos Mitchell, Mayor Jon Raven, and other parliamentary colleagues, remarked on the sense of community and growing cultural connections. “The Indian community in Brisbane is growing, and it’s great to be a part of this celebration for the traditional New Year celebrations,” he said.
John-Paul Langbroek also emphasised the significance of the event, stating, “Indian Council Australia (Queensland Inc) New Year function (India has 9 different New Year celebrations) with the Mayor of Redland Jos Mitchell and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding. It was a great opportunity to meet the Council’s advisory board, dignitaries, and representatives while enjoying an array of performances.”
The event was filled with vibrant displays of traditional Indian music, dance, and cuisine, providing a taste of India’s diverse culture to all attendees. Mayor Jos Mitchell highlighted the inclusive nature of the celebration, expressing gratitude to ICAQ for the invitation. “It was a great opportunity to meet the Council’s advisory board, dignitaries, and representatives while enjoying an array of performances – an event showcasing the wonderfully inclusive diversity in our community,” she said.
As Brisbane’s Indian community continues to grow, events like this play a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity and celebrating the rich cultural heritage that makes the city unique. The ICAQ’s Indian Traditional New Year Celebrations are expected to become a cherished annual tradition, bringing people together to embrace diversity and create lasting memories.
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