MELBOURNE, 30 August 2025: On the eve of an anti-mass migration rally set for Sunday, 31 August near Flinders Street Station, the nearby National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Arts Centre hosted their annual “Indian Community Day.” The day-long event featured a diverse program of free exhibitions, performances, Indian dances, dhol (drum) music, and a screening of the film “My Melbourne.”
Interestingly, Sunday’s rally is centered on the claim: “More Indians in five years than Greeks and Italians in 100,” suggesting a perceived surge in Indian migration to Australia—a trend the rally’s organizers, according to their flyer, blame on the “Labor-Liberal uniparty.”
Escaping Melbourne’s cold, windy weather, visitors arrived at the Arts Centre after a short tram ride from Flinders Street Station. The main foyer buzzed with the sounds of art lovers and excited conversations. Many Indian families, some in traditional attire, were visible among the crowd.
On stage in the main hall, SBS Radio’s Preeti Jabbal interviewed three local creatives about their inspirations and career journeys. While the event had much to offer, the crowd appeared noticeably smaller than last year. The highlight for many was the energetic dhol performance—a trio of drummers drew the largest audience, with some attendees dancing enthusiastically to the beats. Interestingly, there seemed to be more non-Indians than Indians participating, creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. For once, an Indian-focused event appeared to attract a broader mainstream audience—a positive shift.
The NGV succeeded in sharing Indian culture with a wider public. No obvious discussion about the impending anti-migration rally was overheard among attendees, even among well-informed members of the Indian community, perhaps reflecting a lack of interest or awareness—despite strong criticism of the rally from community leaders. As someone remarked, except for the Indigenous people, everyone in Australia is either a migrant or descended from one.
Notably, several prominent Indian-Australian social media personalities were absent. Influencers typically seen at community gatherings seemed to take a break from an event that, this year, connected Indians and mainstream Australians in large numbers.
The day also featured DJ music, a bansuri (flute) recital, karma dance, dance battles, poetry, Masala Bhangra, and the film screening of “My Melbourne.” Elsewhere in the Arts Centre, visitors could enjoy the major “French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston” exhibition.
Indian snacks and Kingfisher beer were available—though it was unclear whether the beer was imported from India. Food offerings included pakora (bread patties), Bombay burgers, vegetable samosas, moong dal kachori, masala chai, mango lassi, and Kingfisher lager.
As I left the NGV, I felt a sense of belonging. Indian Community Day brought together people from different backgrounds, creating joyful moments and a spirit of togetherness—reminding us of the multicultural Australia that is worth cherishing and protecting.
