Brisbane hosted a large Indian New Year celebration on 14 March 2026, with the Indian Council of Australia, Queensland Inc. bringing together cultural groups, community leaders and elected representatives at the Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre.
The evening began with the arrival of invited guests and community representatives, followed by an invocation and lighting ceremony that set the tone for the program.
A series of performances reflected a range of Indian traditions and broader multicultural influences. Devotional music featured early, including a bhajan by Art of Living and a Sanskrit piece by Ramaa Apurv Kusoorkar. Cultural presentations by Baal Vikas Varga and Veda and Strotra recitations by the Bhat Brothers were also part of the opening segment.
Classical dance formed a central part of the program, with performances in Mohiniattam, Odissi, Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. These were followed by regional and multicultural items, including a Marathi performance by Rashmi Jogalekar, a Nepalese presentation by Mala Aryal and a performance by the Philippines Kalinangan Dance Company. Other acts included Raamdoota Strotram, Maharashtra folk by Noopur Dance Studio, Ghoomar, Bhangra by Rich Virsa, and group presentations by Taal Tarang, Let’s Bollywood and Tapori Squad.
The event concluded with a traditional fashion show featuring a range of Indian attire.
Dignitaries addressed the gathering during the evening, including Consul General of India Neetu Bhagotia, Cr Pye Augustine, Emma Comer MP, Senator Paul Scarr, Julie-Ann Campbell MP representing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Bart Mellish MP and Mayor Jon Raven.
An ICAQ office bearers’ question and answer session was also held, alongside a leadership transition within the organisation. Shreya Sharma was named president, with Manas Kulkarni as secretary and Akshar Kathi as treasurer.
Organisers said the event brought together multiple Indian New Year traditions observed across regions, including Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Baisakhi, Vishu, Tamil Puthandu, Bihu, Navreh, Cheti Chand and Sajibu Cheiraoba.
“The world respects you when you respect yourself.”
ICAQ said the event aimed to promote cultural pride and community connection while contributing to multicultural life in Queensland.
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