Dr Tanima Banerjee, Founder and Director of Bandana Cultural School, brought together science, visual arts, performing arts and multilingual expression at a community event in Lidcombe on 22 August, as part of National Science Week celebrations. Her vision of bringing science, arts and culture together on one platform resulted in a showcase for diverse communities.
The “Science, Visual & Performing Arts: A Multilingual Confluence 2026” was held at the S P Jain School of Global Management and featured participants ranging from kindergarten students to university students, as well as adults and seniors.
The programme included STEM science exhibitions, art and craft displays, multilingual recitations, drama, instrumental music, singing and dance performances. Visitors could also take part in mathematics and science quizzes, interactive scientific games and competitions.
Students presented science projects covering a range of topics, while families were invited to participate in activities designed to make science accessible and engaging beyond the classroom.
The event also placed a strong focus on the connection between science and creative expression. An art and craft exhibition explored the theme “Science Meets Art”, giving participants an opportunity to present scientific ideas through visual creativity.
One of the memorable moments came from an 85-year-old participant who performed a song, adding an intergenerational element to a programme that brought together people from different age groups.
The event was attended by community and political representatives, including Donna Davis MP, State Member for Parramatta; Warren Kirby MP, State Member for Riverstone and Co-Chair of NSW Parliamentary Friends of India; Clr Frank de Masi, Deputy Mayor of The Hills Shire; Raj Datta, former Strathfield councillor and President of SASH; and Dr Sabrin Farooqui OAM, women’s rights advocate and CEO of Cultural Diversity Network Inc.
Representatives from the Children’s Festival Organisation, Geetanjali School of Dance and other community organisations also attended.
Bandana Cultural School acknowledged the support of Rohit Choksi, CEO of S P Jain School of Global Management, and Saroni Roy of the Saroni Roy Foundation.
The school also expressed its heartfelt gratitude to Science City, Kolkata, India, for its collaborative support and best wishes in helping make the event possible. Organisers said the collaboration helped strengthen connections between science, education, creativity and cultural exchange between India and Australia.
Science engagement organisation OzGrav was represented at the event by Jackie Bondell and Natalie Bowesman. Their participation added a focus on encouraging young people to explore science and related fields.
The programme opened with the traditional lighting of a ceremonial lamp, followed by a day of performances, exhibitions and activities.
The event was designed to encourage education, creativity, cultural participation and lifelong learning by bringing different disciplines and generations together.
Organisers said the programme provided children, young people, families and older participants with opportunities to learn, perform and share their interests in a setting that brought science and the arts together.
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