By SAT News Desk
MELBOURNE,27 December: As Kohli and Pujara were cheered playing magnificent innings in the MCG, outside the stadium, the Indian Summer Festival spiced up the atmosphere with the flavors of curry, classical dances and music. The beautiful flower decorations laced the trees and specially erected gates with color and fragrance.
A classical group dance in front of a huge painting of Tendulkar created a unique Indian ambience as people watched it in astonishment. A huge portrait painting of Gandhi peeped from nearby as a juggler showed his skills.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula joined Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts to welcome cricket goers and check out the Indian Summer Festival. Visitors to the Boxing Day Test were able to snack on tandoori chicken tacos and samosa burgers while watching performances by international artists as part of a new free festival celebrating the colour and culture of India.
The Labor Government has partnered with Cricket Australia to put on the free, three-day festival which features Indian themed food trucks, live music, dancing, street art, an open-air cinema and cricket challenges and free play zones where young fans can show off their skills. The three-day festival at Yarra Park, outside Gate 3 of the MCG, was open to all members of the public. It supports Victoria’s India Strategy, launched in January, by showcasing Victoria as a world-class destination for sports, tourism and culture, and as a welcoming business and trade partner. The Boxing Day Test is hugely important to Victoria’s economy – bringing thousands of visitors to Victoria, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
With almost 210,000 people of Indian ancestry living in Victoria and the test series tied at one all, the Labor Government and Cricket Australia expected big crowds as India and Australia compete for the BorderGavaskar trophy. The full festival line-up and event details are available at www.indianfestival18.com.au
