The Hello Zindagi team marked its first anniversary at Knox Library on 18 October with warmth, colour and reflection, celebrating a year of storytelling, connection and cultural exchange.
The event brought together a cross-section of Melbourne’s community, including Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, MP for South East Metropolitan Region Lee Tarlamis, and Maribyrnong Mayor Cr Pradeep Tiwari, along with sponsors, past guests, and listeners of the show.
Founder Ruchi Sharma opened the evening with a heartfelt address, saying, “This celebration belongs to everyone who believed, contributed, and connected through this platform.” She described Hello Zindagi as more than a greeting, but “a philosophy of mindfulness and acceptance—living every moment consciously, rather than resisting or escaping from it.”
The celebration began with a mindfulness session led by life coach Christy Roberts, followed by a vibrant dance performance by Abhivyakti Fine Arts Academy and three lively Bollywood numbers that drew the audience to their feet.
Guests took part in a Diwali Kris Kringle, placing gifts beneath a floral display and selecting one on their way out—a simple act that reflected the show’s spirit of sharing and community. The evening concluded with food, conversation and curated return gifts for attendees.
Many described the experience as uplifting and grounding. “The event made them pause and appreciate life,” one attendee said. Another shared, “It’s no longer just a radio program, it’s a feeling of connection.”
Lee Tarlamis OAM MP later reflected on the occasion, calling it “a wonderful Diwali and multicultural celebration at Knox Library.” He said, “This celebration marks a year of building community and creating spaces for people to share stories, find support and celebrate cultural identity in a welcoming environment.”
He congratulated Ruchi Sharma and her team for “spreading light, joy and happiness” and said he was confident “the future will be even brighter.”
The evening captured the essence of Hello Zindagi’s message—to embrace life with gratitude, awareness and joy.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
