The Andhra Association of Queensland (AAQ) brought together hundreds of people for a joyful celebration of Dasara and Diwali on 11 October at Logan Community Hall, filling the venue with colour, music, and a strong sense of togetherness.
The day-long event was a milestone for Queensland’s Telugu-speaking community, offering a mix of traditional rituals, cultural performances, and entertainment that reflected the rich heritage of Andhra Pradesh. From classical dance and devotional music to modern acts and children’s showcases, the celebration captured the spirit of both festivals.
A variety of food stalls serving authentic South Indian dishes, sweets, and snacks, alongside jewellery and clothing stalls, added to the vibrant festive mood.
AAQ Founders Ram Junnuri and Uma Chilukoti thanked the management team, volunteers, sponsors, and community members for their continued support. “This celebration reflects our unity, culture, and community spirit. Every volunteer, sponsor, and performer played a vital role in creating this joyful and meaningful occasion,” said Mr Junnuri, calling it a cultural milestone for the Indian community.
Stretton MP James Martin joined the celebrations as a special guest. The event was supported by sponsors including CBA Bank, BYD Eagers Auto Mount Gravatt, and Raniga Lawyers.
A highlight of the evening was the devotional presentation “Nine Goddesses – Navadurga”, creatively led by AAQ Spiritual Coordinator Mrs Sudha Shankar garu. The performance celebrated divine feminine energy and helped pass on cultural values to younger generations.
Cultural Coordinators Sunitha Jakkampudi garu and Janakiram Mannava garu curated a series of performances that kept audiences engaged throughout the event, while raffle winners received hampers sponsored by Mortgage Winner’s Mrs Priyanka Sripathi and gift vouchers from Mr Rama Krishna of Robina 7 Days Doctors.
Special thanks were extended to MCs Arthi Jayaraj garu, Aswini, and Venugopal garu for their lively hosting, as well as to the Helping Hands team for their dedication behind the scenes. Food sponsors including Dosa Hut (Mount Gravatt, Aspley, and Gold Coast), Café Hyderabad, Hyderabad Flavours, and Siri’s Food Paradise were acknowledged for their generosity.
The AAQ Executive Committee Team—Hema Naidu, Kuldeep Ganisetti, Sitaram Vangapandu, Priyanka Vadlamudi, Swamy Juluru, Satya Prakash, Raj Grandhi, and Jayanth Kuhaluri—provided crucial support throughout the planning and execution. Event Coordinator Dr Mrinal Madireddi oversaw the event with meticulous organisation, while background music and lighting, arranged by Bhanu Yapuri, added to the charm of the evening.
The celebration concluded with a strong sense of unity and cultural pride, reinforcing the importance of celebrating traditions while strengthening ties within the wider Australian community.
The Andhra Association of Queensland continues to promote Telugu culture and friendship under its guiding motto—“Together for a Better Future.”
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