MELBOURNE, 17 August 2023: India’s 77th Independence Day was celebrated here with massive participation of the Indian Diaspora on 15th August at the Indian Consulate and on 16th August at a grand reception at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)’s famous Olympic Room. The Olympic Room celebrates the MCG’s hosting of the ‘friendly games’ in 1956.
The 350 plus guests included prominent Indian Diaspora members, Ministers, politicians, academics, professionals, business people, prominent personalities, and students.
The grand function kicked off with the national anthems of Australia and India, followed by speeches of congratulations from Victorian Government Ministers. Indian Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar addressed the august gathering detailing India’s progress since 1947.
Those who attended the event included Hon. Colin Brooks, Minister for Multicultural Affairs representing Premier of Victoria, Hon. Natalie Hutchins, Minister of Education, Hon. John Pesutto,MP, Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matt Fregon, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Lee Tarlamis, MP, Hon. John Mullahy, MP, Hon. Mathew Hilakari, MP, Hon. Meng Heang Tak MP, Mayor of Bendigo, Victorian Multicultural Commissioner, Members of various Victorian Councils, Members of Consular Corp, Community and faith leaders, Indian Australian Entrepreneurs, Press, Indian diaspora etc. and Hon.Ted Baillieu, former Premier of Victoria.
Victoria has emerged as the biggest centre of Indian Diaspora in Australia, with trade relations improving over the years. India and Indian Diaspora’s engagement and bonding with mainstream Australia and Victoria are being seen as a victory of India-Australia diplomatic and cultural engagement.
The evening at the iconic MCG was a shining and colourful one as the outside of MCG was decorated with India’s tricolour colours in three lines.
Inside the pomp and glitter was reflected in the various cultural items including dances and classical music.
It was also a day of photo opportunities and networking. On a cold evening the reception gave a warm ambience of joy, friendship, and nostalgia.
A day earlier (15 August, 2023) the Indian Consulate saw the tricolour being unfurled in the morning in the presence of a massive Diaspora crowd. This was followed by the reading of the Indian President’s Independence Day speech by Indian Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar. This was followed by a cultural program and networking.
-Photos & video, South Asia Times (SAT)/NN.
