Over 15,000 people came together in Melbourne to celebrate the colourful frenzy
It was a kaleidoscope of colours, dance, music and fun. Despite the dark skies,the bright colours added smiles to the faces of everyone with around 15,000 people in attendance, . Wyndham Holi was touted to be the biggest Holi event of this year. And it definitely lived up to the hype. The event had multiple marquees, numerous swings, rides for kids, a variety of food stalls to impress all palates and plentiful entertainment.
Bernard Finn MP remarked, “It’s a wonderful day, perfect weather and a lot of colour. It’s a great honour and joy for me to be here at this community event.” The day started with the rath yatra organised by the ISKCON Temple which was attended by many community seniors. The temple had a marquee set up along with the rath for the devotees to visit all day.
The rath is a replica of the famous Jagannath Puri rath. There was also a Holi Puja performed. DJ Arry and DJ Spark kept the crowds on their feet and dancing non-stop as they threw coloured powder on one another. The crowds were engaged with many performances by local artists including Mum’s Dance Club, a solo by Sarabjit, a couple of songs by Vinayak Sharma, and an orchestra which performed a few popular songs.
Actress Tania Zaetta said, “I love this event. I was here last year and it is three time bigger this time around. I wish there were more Aussies here to participate in it all.” The management committee of this event was a 70- member team which included many organisations working together.
The event also supported and raised funds for Mercy Hospital. Ripan Sethi, one of the organisers, said, “It has turned out to be a wonderful event. Other than a few technical hitches, everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.” The event was not limited to marking just Holi. Easter was celebrated too with the Easter Bunny doing the rounds and greeting little kids whose excitement was visible on their faces.
“We have organised this event to bring the community together and to showcase the multiculturalism of Australia,” said Neha Kolape, Secretary of the Management Committee. “It is delightful to see so many people having a ball with their friends and family.”
The most awaited session of the day came with the performance of renowned Punjabi singer and actor Jasbir Jassi. The crowds were enraptured. The energy and environment was marvellous. He sang a few of his songs, interacted with the audience, and danced with young kids.
Acting Mayor of Wyndham City Council, Gautam Gupta said, “It is a fantastic, well-managed event for families. Kudos to the organisers for pulling it off.”
The night concluded with a magnificent display of fireworks bringing the colourful festival to an end.
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