Holi Mahotsav celebrations
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Sydney's Darling Harbour will become a sea of colour this weekend when Australians of different backgrounds join the Hindu community in celebrating Holi Mahotsav.
‘Holi is one of the world's most colourful celebrations and we are fortunate that our large Indian and Hindu Australian community has made it a part of our evolving cultural calendar,’ Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson said today.
Celebrations will begin during the weekend March 15-16 with further events scheduled around the country to March 22.
Mr Ferguson said he had been privileged to have attended Holi celebrations in the past years. As the Federal Member for Reid, he represents one of the most diverse electorates in Australia.
‘Holi is a celebration of colours, friendship and harmony. In India, it celebrates the fertility of the land and good harvests,’ Mr Ferguson said.
‘It is one of the festivals which bring people together, regardless of their background. When coloured powders (gulal) and water are thrown around, it doesn't matter what colour you are underneath,’ the parliamentary secretary added.
Media contact: Khaldoun Hajaj - 0404 078 692
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2008/lf08010.htm
Last update: 13 August 2008 at 17:14 AEST