Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, recently immersed himself in the vibrant cultural offerings of Varanasi during the Mahindra Kabira Festival. The annual celebration, which honours the teachings of the 15th-century mystic poet Kabir, combines music, literature, and dialogue along the historic ghats of the Ganges.
The High Commissioner began his day with a serene sunrise over the river, set to the soulful renditions of Kabir’s poetry by Yusra Naqvi. This tranquil start captured the essence of the festival, which seeks to connect contemporary audiences with Kabir’s timeless philosophy.
As evening descended, Green attended the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerising daily ritual featuring fire, chants, and dance. Held on the riverbanks, the Aarti is a spiritual spectacle, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience its profound beauty.
During the festival, the High Commissioner also met with members of the Aravani Art Project, a collective led by trans and cis women, whose public art initiatives create safe and inclusive spaces for the transgender community. Their impactful work resonated deeply with the event’s broader themes of harmony and inclusion.
Adding a lighter touch to the visit, Green observed a spirited cricket match on the ghats. The makeshift pitch, humorously dubbed Varanasi’s Melbourne Cricket Ground by the Ganges, reflected the universal love for the sport and its ability to connect people across cultures.
The Mahindra Kabira Festival, organised by Teamwork Arts, has become a cultural mainstay, blending soulful music, heritage walks, and literary sessions against the backdrop of one of India’s oldest cities. Green’s presence underscored the deep cultural ties between India and Australia, showcasing the role of art and tradition in fostering meaningful international connections.
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