President’s Page Holi Mahotsav

Mahotsav is a sandhi (compound) of two Sanskrit words: Maha (meaning ‘grand’) and Utsav (meaning ‘festival). Holi is one of two the most prominent Hindu festivals, the other being Deepavali. Holi is the festival of friendship and harmony. People in India choose this day to forgive their ‘foes’ and forget their old difference to become friends again. People from all castes and religions come together to enjoy the spirit of Holi. This is the day of no worries. It harbingers the arrival of spring and new harvest. In India during Holi days one can see colours of joy everywhere.

I had desired to celebrate Holi in Australia in a most prominent location with people from every community. My obvious choice was Darling Harbour where flow of people never stops and I wanted it to be free for everyone to join in the festivities. Most of the Indian festivals were called ‘Mela’ in Australia; but I wanted to be different and choose words which would reflect the grandness of my proposed plan for Holi. I first thought Utsav and then wished to add Maha. I consulted my good friend and one of the founder directors of Bhavan Australia Vish Viswanathan; he suggested that we compound the two words and thus Mahotsav was selected to go with Holi to reflect the grandeur of the festival of friendship and harmony. My friends, who later became an integral part of Bhavan Australia, Sridhar Kumar Kondepudi and Avijit Sarkar put in great and selfless efforts in putting the entire festival together. I salute them for their ongoing support and involvement. That was in March 2003.

This year we are celebrating sixth annual Holi Mahotsav. Since 2005 we have made it into two days of festivities and also added Rath Yatra through the streets of Sydney CBD with the courtesy of ISKCON Sydney.

I am indeed immensely grateful to all those who have travelled with me in past five years in turning Holi Mahotsav an Indian festival of harmony and friendship into mainstream grand Australian festival of harmony today. Australian community has made Holi part of our evolving cultural calendar.

My special thanks are due to Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, India Tourism Sydney and ISKCON Sydney who agreed to and encouraged my plans for Holi Mahotsav in 2003 and have remained with us since then. The Premier of New South Wales has been supporting Holi Mahotsav since 2005 with grants from the Community Relations Commission for a Multicultural NSW. I am grateful the New South Wales Government. City of Sydney and City Central Command of NSW Police have greatly supported our Street Procession / Rath Yatra every year since 2005. My sincere thanks and gratitude are due to them. I would like to make a special mention for Sgt Stewart Lockrey of NSW Police who has been coordinating the street procession every year since 2005. Yoga in Daily Life, Ayurveda College of Australia and various corporate sponsors like QANTAS, Western, Union, Westpac Bank and a number of food and merchandise stall holders have been an integral part of and in fact the very life of Holi Mahotsav over the years. I salute them for their confidence in us.

Reliance India Call deserve our special and deep gratitude for coming on board this year as a partner sponsor. Kenzo Parfums have created a special perfume name Holi Hai (meaning it is Holi!) to be released at the Holi Mahotsav 2008. I am grateful to them for honouring the Holi in this manner.

I acknowledge with deep gratitude the immense contribution of my fellow directors, staff: Utkarsh Doshi, Jenifer Murtas, Nitin Patel, Kathy Zhong, Govinda Watts and others, and of course an army of volunteers lead by Rajesh Katakdhond, Dr Swati Kapila.

Holi Mahotsav could not have been possible without the selfless untiring support of a large number of Dance groups and performers numbering over 200 every year. I bow before and salute them with humility and gratitude.

Bhoji Watts (my better half) and her friend Manju Chand have been managing the stage and production supported by Nayana Purohit and other graceful ladies every year since inception. Moksha Watts, my daughter, has contributed a lot in various fields including being a Master of Ceremonies, hand in statement and production, media relations and overall coordination. Three young ladies Sophil Raja, Mecki Ansari, Soiam Raja single handily managed the entire Master of ceremonies function for two whole days for the entire Holi Mahotsav 2008. Without these wonderful ladies the Holi Mahotsav could not have happened. I bow before and salute them with humility and gratitude and pride.

We at Bhavan Australia wish everyone a Happy Holi and prosperous year to follow!

Gambhir Watts President Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia

Performances 15 March 2008

■ Sikh Kirtan by Shruti Gurmat Sangeet Jatha Group Co-ordinator: Harmohan Singh Walia

Performers : Names

■ Yoga Demonstration by Yoga in Daily Life

■ Ruchi Sanghi Dance School Group Co-ordinator: Ruch Sanghi

Performers : Shruti Bhardwaj - Kathak dance named ‘Koched’

Smriti Bhardwaj - ‘Taraana’ in Kathak

■ Bharatnatayam Dance Performance by Kavita Ponnuju

■ Aboriginal Performance by Tribal Warrior Association Inc

Group Co-ordinator: Shane Phillips

Performers : Arthur Tamwoi, Benelong Balangary, Ron Guivara, Uncle Max Eulo

PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTION

Traditional Aboriginal Didgeridoo playing accompanied with traditional Aboriginal songs & Dances and Smoke Ceremony.

■ Amilee Saha & Group -

Performers : Amilee Shaha, Jyoti, Marion, Nishttha

PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTION

Nimbuda Nimbuda from ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’

■ Kirtan by ISKCON Sydney

Master of Ceremonies Sophil Raja: Sophil Raja is currently undertaking her PhD in Forensic Chemistry and aspires to work with the Australian Federal Police one day. She supports the Salvation Army through the Red Shield Appeal. She enjoys helping out at the various Indian festivals organised by Bhavan Australia whether it be performing Indian dances or as a volunteer. Her interests include watching movies, listening to music and spending time with her family and friends.

Mecki Ansari Mecki Ansari is currently working for Colonial first state. She has had numerous experiences in acting in many productions and public speaking. She enjoys creative arts such as acting and dancing.

Soiam Raja is currently in her second year of media and law and plans to practice criminal law after watching too much Law and Order! She is interested in multiculturalism and the integration of Indian traditions into the Australian way of life. She has performed in many children’s plays. She enjoys herself, no matter what she is doing, and believes in living life to the fullest!

Moksha Watts

■ Zarmar Pandya & Group Group Co-ordinator: Zarmar Pandya

Performers : Kitty, Prabhati, Swati, Zarmar.

■ Scottish Highland Dancers Group Co-ordinator: Karen McPhillips

Performers : Elizabeth Munro, Emily Carr, Holly Anderson, India Anderson, Jessica Norman, Lauren Caunter.

■ Raghavan Nair’s Indian Dance Centre Group Co-ordinator: Raghavan Nair, Poornima Sharma

PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTION

1.SWAGATAM : The word itself means ' WELCOME ', and it's in semi -Classical style with the music taken from the Sitar Maestro Pundit Ravi Shanker's composition, choreographed by Shri Raghavan Nair and performed by Poornima , Urvashi , Sanushka , Ashishna and Bhim .

2. SAAIYA : This is a Bollywood Number taken from the movie Mumbai Se Aya Mera Dost , choreographed by Poornima Sharma and performed by Poornima , Bhim , Ashishna , Charlene , Janet , Natalie , Nicci, Urvashi , Sanushka , Akshara & Aiona.

3. DHOLNA : This is a typical Rajasthani Folk number . It's a very high Tempo dance with fast drumming beats. Song sung by the famous international singer Shubha Mudgal , choreographed by Poornima Sharma and performed by Poornima , Bhim , Ravi , Urvashi , Sanushka , Aiona , Janet , Natalie , Nicci , Ashishna and Akshara.

■ Folk Dances by Kanan Shah

■ Bollywood Dance Performance by Tanya Goswami

■ Dance Performance on “Aaja Nachle’ by Richa Srivastava

■ Punjabi Sangeet Centre Group Co-ordinator: Devinder Singh Dharia

Performers : Names

PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTION

Bhangra and Punjabi Folk dances and Punjabi Folk songs by Devinder Singh Dharia

■ Talk by Bhakta Pralad from ISKCON Sydney on “Art of Happiness”

■ Talk by Swami Mahamandleshwar - Yoga in Daily Life

■ Semi Classical Dance Performance from the Film ‘Dasi” by Ritu Singh

■ Bollywood Medly Dance Performance by Rakhi Birla

■ VIP Session

■ Yoga Demonstration by Yoga in Daily Life

■ Folk Dance by Kavita Ponnuju

■ Amilee Saha & Group - Kaahe Chede Mohe from ‘Devdas’

Performers : Amilee Shaha, Jyoti, Marion, Nishttha

■ Kirtan by ISKCON Sydney followed by traditional Fire Ceremony (HAVAN)

Performances 16 March 2008

■ Yoga Demonstration by Yoga in Daily Life

■ Shruti Bose & Group Group Co-ordinator: Shruti Bose

Performers : Anindita Saha, Dipta Tapasvi, Oona Banerjee, Rani Khan, Shrinkha Vinod, Shruti Bose.

■ Priya Dewan Dance Academy Group Co-ordinator: Priya Dewan

Performers : Deeksha, Divya, Isha, Kavisha, Priyanka, Shivani, Sohana, Sona, Sonali, Sunaina

■ Geetanjali School of Dance and Performing Arts Group Co-ordinator: Sharmila Maitra Performers : Advika Kamboj, Anisha Krishnasamy, Debolina Chowdhury, Eesha Arora, Eesha Chitale, Emil Rayhan, Erika Rayhan, Erina Rayhan, Kanika Choudhury, Medha Gupta, Moumita Chowdhury, Priya Basu, Ragini Sood, Ritika Bhattacharya, Sahil Arora, Shruti Yardi, Shuchi Gupta, Sonal Arora, Sonali Yardi, Tiana Malhotra.

■ Karaoke Songs by Mayukh Sengupta

■ Mango Dance Studio Group Co-ordinator: Farah Shah

Performers : Alpa Gupta, Amanda Lovegreen, Amanda Lovegreen, Amee Ormaechea, Amita Salvi, Angharad Davis, Annika Karan, Anurag Kanwar, Claudine Haber, Daksha Dhanji, Daniella Mansour, Dhara Karunaratne, Dipali Goel, Divya Saxena, Farah Shah, Isabella Polgar, Kanika Nanda, Kartika Dubey, Kavery Dubey, Ketaki Kale, Kirsty Archer, Krithika Hariharan, Leoni Wishart, Lesley Branagan, Lesley Louchnan, Louise Reily, MaimoonahAhmed, Manisha Prasad, Mathilda Luister, Mehnaaz Khan, Nerissa Jayasingha, Nilusha Guruge, Raghav Handa, Rajnita Kumar, Ronis Kumar, Sajna Shukla, Siksha Singha, Simran Hingorani, Stephanie Bauche, Sureyya Alkan, Tahlia Dias, Uzma Rayani, Valentina Angelovska, Vanessa Skipp, Viksha Muthanna, Vishal Prasad, Vivienne Cabraja, Zoe Wakelin-King.

PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTION

1. Bollywood Spice - Bollywood Performance

2. Classical Indian Solo Performance

3. Bollywood Performance by small children

4. Bollywood Performance by Intermediate and Semi-Classical Students

■ Kirtan by ISKCON Sydney

■ Bollywood Performance by Shruti Bose & Group

■ VIP Session

■ Nupur Dance School Group Co-ordinator: Manjusha De

■ Talk by Bhakta Pralad from ISKCON Sydney on “Art of Happiness”

■ Yoga Demonstration by Yoga in Daily Life

■ Contemporary Dance Academy

Group Co-ordinator: Shwetambra Barar

Performance Description :

Beege Beege - Alisha Nandan, Anadita Taneja, Krisha Kumar,Kriti Gupta, Niyati Desai, Shauna Abel.

Munna Bhai - Alisha Arora, Manasa Bhat, Nikita Naidu, Samiksha Rampersad, Sanjana Madhyasta, Tavishi Arora

Sainyaan Re - Piya Sodhi, Riya Chowdhry, Sandhya Menon, Sanya Chopra.

Kiss of Love - Anmol Arya, Elina Manirekar, Mayisha Srakar. Mehak Arya, Pallavi Suri, Rachna Despande, Ruchika Mitter, Salonika Mitter, Tanvi Suri.

Jhoom - Ashneet Kaur, Sanjana Nagesh, Varsha Krishnappa.

Tauba Tauba - Ayushe Arya, Bhavana Baht, Maansi Arora, Sanjana Chand, Shubhra Bajaj, Tarana Khunger.

■ Talk on Ayurveda by Prof. Jasaon Chandler

■ Anand Arora & Group

Group Co-ordinator: Anand Arora

Performance Description :

1. Instrumental Music by Sharshad on sitar and harmonium, Yama on tabla and rhythm machine, Masse on key board

2. Bollywood and Patriotic songs by Anand Arora, Jasmine and Rajeshwer accompanied with Sharshad on sitar and harmonium, Yama on tabla and rhythm machine, Masse on key board.

■ Kirtan by ISKCON Sydney

Hello, and welcome, to Darling Harbour and the 2008 Holi Mahotsav Festival.

Once again this year, the Holi Mahotsav Festival will transform Darling Harbour into a menagerie of colour, movement, fragrance and fun!

It is fitting that the Holi Festival – the colour of friendship and harmony – is being held at Darling Harbour which has long been a meeting place for Sydneysiders, Australians from many cultural backgrounds, and visitors from all over the world.

This is especially true when it comes to celebrating important cultural dates and significant occasions and, as in the case of the Holi Festival, events that are of special significance to a distinct part of our community.

Darling Harbour also literally shimmers with the distinct colours of Sydney: white-crested waves bobbing against the brilliant blue of the harbour; the glistening sun; sailing boats and harbour ferries, capped by the stunning lights of one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

The Holi Festival holds a special place in Darling Harbour’s annual calendar and offers a wonderful opportunity to increase the vibrancy and diversity of the precinct.

The fantastic crowds that come to the event – last year more than 100,000 people, from Sydneysiders to domestic and international travellers, visited Darling Harbour during the festival – are able to share the special sprit of the day.

Darling Harbour is just one of the historically and culturally significant waterfront locations managed by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. The Authority is responsible for balancing community, cultural, tourism, heritage and commercial objectives in Darling Harbour, and in other areas in Sydney including The Rocks, for the benefit of NSW and the nation.

As part of its role, the Authority not only provides public space for a range of community festivals, including Holi Mahotsav, it also facilitates such festivals at a cost recovery-basis to help maximise the success of such events.

To ensure the Authority is able to assist in this effort to make the event a great day for all, members of our professional events’ team are also located on-site to support the hard work and contribution of the many volunteers involved in such events.

The growth of the Holi Mahotsav Festival is testament to its on-going success. For the first time this year, the event will include a concert by an Indian orchestral group at Tumbalong Park and the Chinese Garden of Friendship forecourt.

Once again, the event will launch with its popular street festival through the Sydney CBD, while one of the festival’s most popular elements, the colour throwing area, will also return.

I would like to congratulate and thank the president of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia, Gambhir Watts, on behalf of everyone involved in the festival and the many thousands lucky enough to enjoy the results of his hard work coordinating the event.

Holi Hai!

Dr Robert Lank

Chief Executive Officer

Message from Hon Laurie Ferguson MP

Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services

I would like to take this opportunity to send my warmest wishes to Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia for the success of the Holi Mahotsav.

I have attended Holi festivals in the past and I know that they are among the world’s most vibrant celebrations, bringing people together regardless of their background. We are fortunate that the Indian and Hindu Australian community has made Holi part of our evolving cultural calendar.

The Australian Government is committed to Australia as an inclusive, cohesive community which embraces its cultural diversity. An event such as this is just one of the ways in which Australians connect with each other.

I wish the organisers and everyone attending the Holi celebrations a most enjoyable and memorable occasion.

Laurie Ferguson

Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services

Message from Senator the Hon. Chris Ellison

It is a great pleasure to contribute to the souvenir magazine on the occasion of Holi Mahotsav 2008.

This year's festival promises to be biggest ever in Australia and I wish everyone attending over the 3 days a most enjoyable time.

Holi Mahotsav is a celebration of colour and cultural festivities on the day after the full moon in March.

Bhavan Australia have again organised a huge programme of activities to share Indian culture with the community.

Australia and India share a close friendship with many people from our respective nations living in India and Australia and travelling between our respective nations for work and holiday.

For many years we have shared a close friendship and the ties between our nations continue to grow.

Enjoy the festivities and I look forward to seeing you again at the next Bhavan event.

With best wishes, Senator the Hon. Chris Ellison Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate Senator for Western Australia

MESSAGE FROM PREMIER MORRIS IEMMA MP

On the occasion of the festival of Holi, I am delighted to extend my warmest greetings to the Indian community.

Holi signifies the change of seasons. And just as the new season is ushered in with the celebration of colours, may this festival renew our hopes for the future, and herald increased happiness, prosperity and harmony within the whole community.

May the spirit of Holi continue to inspire us by adding Gulal (colour) and creativity to our lives, and strengthen the spirit of friendship and acceptance among the diverse communities of New South Wales.

On behalf the NSW Government, I congratulate Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia for staging the Holi Mahotsav festivities, and offer best wishes to the Indian community.

Morris Iemma, MP

Premier

and Minister for Citizenship

Message from Dr Stepan Kerkyasharian Chair

Community Relations Commission For a Multicultural NSW

Holi, with its sense of unbridled fun, is a very practical form of harmony and community inter-action. It stands out as a festival where people come to have fun and behave a little childishly – throwing clouds of brightly coloured powders over each other.

It is a festival where unfamiliar cultural traditions would seem to be very accessible.

But Holi is much more than having fun showering each other with coloured powder. It is a day when people of Indian cultural background can relive their younger days of mischief and en-joyment and when other Australians can learn a great deal about Indian culture, music, dance, food, philosophy and traditional medicine.

This festival continues to grow and attract more and more attention from the broader community and is now firmly es-tablishing itself on Sydney’s cultural calendar.

Holi is an ancient festival which until today brings thousands into the streets of Indian cities to make fun. But the spiri-tual aspects of spreading love and harmony are well understood and underpin the broad acceptance of this festival.

The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan continues to broaden this festival at its Darling Harbour venue and I congratulate them for providing this major event for the enjoyment and education of the people of Sydney. Dr Stepan Kerkyashsarian AM Chair

Message From Clr Sonya Phillips - Mayor Baulkham Hills Shire Council

It is a pleasure for me to contribute to your special souvenir issue of Bahvan Australia magazine, commemorating Holi – your community’s annual celebration of harmony and friendship.

This year is the Sixth Annual Festival – the sixth shared celebration of traditional Vedic Indian Culture that brings people together from across the State as equals.

The Baulkham Hills Shire is home to 2904 people whose country of birth is listed as India – according to 2006 Census figures. This figure has grown by 1,166 from 2001 indicating that people from India are increasingly finding our Shire an attractive place to live.

Baulkham Hills Shire Council celebrates diversity and values the contribution made by our local cultural groups to the wellbeing of our Shire.

Councl's Cultural Plan 2005-2010 acknowledges that creativity, innovation and cultural development are key components of our Shire's growth, social well-being and quality of life.

Our Plan seeks to maintain informed engagement with all sectors of our region, and strengthen and invigorate the protection and interpretation of natural and social heritage in the Shire.

I congratulate Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, the Institute for Indian Art and Culture, for being passionate advocates, actively promoting the understanding of Indian culture in our country.

Message from Cr Robert Furolo - Mayor of City of Canterbury

National Harmony Day is an opportunity to promote the values we all share: peace, unity and respect.

It’s also an opportunity for us to come together in the spirit of partnership and learn about other cultures and traditions.

The Holi Mahotsav is a unique way to celebrate and promote cultural harmony, break down prejudice and intolerance. It’s also an opportunity for the wider community to experience tradi-tional Vedic Indian culture.

Community harmony is particularly important for the City of Canterbury. Almost 50 percent of our residents were born overseas, and are from over 130 different nationalities.

We are supportive of innovative ways to encourage our community to come together, celebrate different cultures and traditions and pride in our nation.

Harmony Day just reinforces what Council and many community organisations and groups are doing EVERY DAY of the year.

It highlights the relevance of multiculturalism to each individual in our community.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Bhavan Australia on continuing your good work and I wish you every success for the Holi Mahotsav.

Message by Ron Hoenig - Mayor City of Botany Bay

“….However I would like to congratulate you on the initiative and commitment your organisation is showing towards such a worthwhile cause and working towards bringing harmony and freedom from conflict amongst people.”

Women’s Federation for World Peace Australia

(UN ECOSOC /DPI / NGO General Consultative Status) PO Box 642, Burwood NSW 1805 – Phone: 61-02-9211 9978 Fax: 9211 3066

Email: wfwpaustralia@optusnet.com.au

On behalf of the Women’s Federation for World Peace I wish you a Happy Holi Mahotsav and Best Wishes to all those celebrating this significant day in Indian culture. This Festival of Colours, Friendship and Harmony, is a wonderful occasion for us to come together as a community and enjoy the presentation and the celebration of Indian culture. It is further evidence that we expanding our minds and hearts to embrace others and moving towards becoming a global community.

Congratulations to Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan for their important role in bringing this Holi Mahotsav event to Sydney.

Jynene Helland

International Vice President WFWP (Oceania Region)

Message by Prof Abd Malak AM

It is with great pleasure to congratulate Bhavan Australia, members and president Mr Gambhir Watts for their committment, hard work and contribution towards building inclusive Australia.

Holi Mahotsav represents one of the greatest events in the Indian calendar, celebrating good harvest and fertility. It brings the richness and vibrants of Indian culture, in addition to the spirit of culture harmony. It is significant to celebrate at the same time as part of the Austra-lian Harmony Day Celebration.

One of the fundamental issues of multicultural Australia is how to harvest the benefits of culture diversity that as a nation we so often allow to "rot in the fields". The concept allows Australia to gain enormous social, culture and economic benefits associated with improved productivity if the diversity of its citizens is valued and effective utilised. Definitely Bhavan Australia has a signficantly contributed toward achieving this goal.

A/Prof Abd Malak AM Convenor Australian Partnership of Religious Organisations Honorary President Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils of Australia

A/Prof Abd Malak AM BSW, MSW, MAASW, AFCHSE Executive Director Workforce and Organisational Development Sydney West Area Health Service

India is often called the land where there are “thirteen religious festivals in twelve months”. The vastness of its ancient traditions allows for almost daily festivities. The scale of such celebrations may range from a mahotsava (“large festival”) to a simple gathering in the home. The Kumbha Mela (the largest holy gathering in the world) and Ratha Yatra bring together millions of people, while the ceremony of the first feeding of solid food to one’s child (annaprashana) requires nothing more that the presence of the father and mother.

With Indian culture now spread across the globe, Sydney-siders can easilly witness and participate in various wonderful festivals, bringing participants together to both edify and inspire. These great occasions have different meanings, but the goal is one - to experience a joyful respite from everyday life with the help of a spiritual atmosphere.

Holi Festival celebrates the advent of spring. On Holi, people vigorously spray each other with colored dyes. This showering of various colours commemorates one of Krishna’s many lilas with the gopis.

Ratha Yatra originates from Jagannatha Puri, an ancient city in India, though this festival is probably most widely celebrated outside of India. Its first Western observance was performed in the late 60's on the west coast of the USA. Since then, thanks to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, it is now celebrated in most major cities of the world.

On the large float (“Rath”), devotees place the deities of Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra and

participants pull the cart in a joyous procession. When devotees pull the long, sturdy ropes of the Ratha-yatra cart, they are pulling Krishna back into their hearts - back to the land of Vrindavan.

We are very happy to see a growing interest in the spiritual aspect of India’s ancient heritage. Festivals like Holi and Ratha-yattra provide a very easy and joyful way of acquainting ourself with this deep, spiritual culture.

On behalf of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness I would like to thank Bhavan Australia and its President Mr. Gambhir Watts for organising this very important festival. We also appreciate the involvement and support of the business and political community. We are looking forward to many more festivals with Bhavan Australia and the people of Sydney.

Vara-nayaka das

President: International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

Blessed Selves, Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The annual Indian tradition of Holi Mahotsav is a celebration of friendship and harmony, two of the most im-portant elements most needed in today’s society.

We stand at a time in the world’s history when all humanity must reaffirm its commitment to a global culture of harmony and peace. As peoples of different nations, cultures and religions, we ought to be more than wit-nesses to global events. Rather we ought to be an active, driving force to create a more peaceful, just and sustainable world - a world where global ethics prevail without national, religious or ideological borders.

In the words of the United Nations Charter we must “reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dig-nity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small...to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours, and unite our strength to maintain international peace…”

The Vedic culture of Sanatan Dharma is the oldest spiritual tradition on earth which, like others, teaches the transformative power of forgiveness, harmony, cooperation and unity for peace. It deepens our awareness and awakens our inner understanding of divine governance. To practice Sanatan Dharma means to open our heart to all, without exception – to give help, tolerance, understanding and respect to all nations, cul-tures and religions.

Therefore, on this occasion of Holi let us awaken the transformative powers of tolerance, love and respect. Treat others as you wish to be treated and awaken universal love.

Thank you Mr. Gambhir Watts, President of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia, and all sponsors, for organiz-ing and supporting this meaningful event of Holi Mahotsav. To accomplish the task we have ahead of us to create world peace, we have only two days - yesterday and today. No body has ever seen tomorrow. With hindsight we must learn from our mistakes of yesterday and with that knowledge, act appropriately today.

With Blessings of the Almighty

Vishwaguru Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda

Founder of Yoga in Daily Life, the System

Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda

International Sri Deep Madhavananda Ashram Fellowship

Schikanedergasse 12/13, A-1040 Vienna

Austria, Europe

Email: fellowship@yogaindailylife.org

March, 2008

Message from Harmohan Singh Walia

It gives me great pleasure and honour to send my best wishes for the world's most colourful and vibrant celebrations of the year – Holi Mahotsav. The Indian traditions, customs, culture and diverse heritage of this day is celebrated in dance, music, food, colours and array of activities.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Bhavan Australia continues the tradition of spreading harmony by celebrating the Holi Mahotsav at Darling Harbour. Every year, this festival provides a wonderful occasion for families and friends to reunite through education, art and cultural activities.

I congratulate Bhavan Australia for involving mainstream Australians on this occasion and wish everybody involved in the Holi Mahotsav celebration an enjoyable and memorable day.

Harmohan Singh Walia

Message from United Indian Associations

“"On behalf of United Indian Associations (UIA), I would like to congratulate Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia for organising the "Holi Mahotsav" this year also. Your efforts in spreading the values espoused by the rich Indian Culture and thus enriching the multicultural society of Australia is a matter of great pride for all the people of Indian origin living here, in Australia. "

Raj Natarajan

President, United Indian Associations

Message from Vish Vishwanathan

President Federation Of Australian Indian Assocaitions Inc. (Faia)

On behalf of Federation of Australian Associations Inc ( FAIA) and its members, I am pleased to extend our best wishes to Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia ( BVB) for the HOLI MAHOTSAV 2008 being celebrated during 15/16 March at Darling Harbour. BVB's annual event HOLI MAHOTSAV is very significant to the Australian Indian community and is a great contribution to multiculturism in Australia.

As you may recall the H.H Sankaracharya Swamijis of Kanchi Mutt blessed the very first HOLI MAHOTSAV organised by BVB Australia. During my recent visit to India and Dharshan at Kanchi Mutt, H.H. Vijayendra Saraswati of Kanchi has conveyed once again His Blessings to BVB Australia for the HOLI MAHOTSAV 2008.

I take this opportunity to congratulate you and BVB Australia for HOLI MAHOTSAV 2008.

Best regards

Vish Viswanathan

President

Federation Of Australian Indian Assocaitions Inc. (Faia)

Sydney

Message from NSW Federation Of Community Language Schools The NSW Federation of Community Language Schools would like to congratulate Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan for organising the Holi Mahotsav event at Darling Harbour. It is a credit to your organisation and its members for putting together such a festival not only for your own community but for the wider Australian community so more people can participate and enjoy the delights of Indian tradition and culture. Such festivals give the opportunity for people of all walks of life to come together and learn about the others. The Holi Mahatsov festival theme – The Colour of Friendship and Harmony is an appropriate one as it aims to promote what we in Australia believe in most, that there is a place for all in this great country of ours. Friendship and Harmony are what we all strive to promote so that we can learn from each other and have a harmonious life by understanding and appreciating different cultures. The Indian community is growing in numbers and it is important that new arrivals feel welcomed. By organising this event, you also give the opportunity to those that feel that what they have to offer is important to our society and it is worth displaying. There is no better way of showing one’s own heritage than by displaying art, music, dance and food all of which will no doubt have great effect during this festival. This festival will offer participants the chance to feel and mix with another culture that is uniquely different to Australian society. I am sure that we will all see the important message of friendship and harmony that this event is all about.

With best wishes for a successful Holi Mahotsav Albert Vella President

Hindu Council of Australia Ltd

ACN 082 437 670 Head office: 17 The Crescent, Homebush, NSW 2140, AUSTRALIA

Phone: (02) 8250 4007 Fax: (02) 9746 8944 21 February 2008

The festival of Holi is celebrated in early March to celebrate good harvests and fertility of the land, Holi is a symbolic commemoration of a legend from Hindu mythology. Bonfires are lit on street corners to cleanse the air of evil spirits and bad vibes, and to symbolise the destruction of the wicked Holika, for whom the festival was named. On the follow-ing day people throw coloured water and apply Gulal –coloured powder on forehead of people and embrace each other. It is very joyous festival promoting goodwill and friendliness amongst fellow human beings.

I congratulate the organising committee for a very successful celebration of this colourful Hindu festival and showcas-ing the best in Hindu culture to the multicultural Australian society.

Yours sincerely,

Dr. A. Balasubramaniam

Chairman

THE GRAND FESTIVAL OF COLOURS - HOLI

HOLI HAI...

Come holi and the streets reverberate with the chants of Holi hai… Colours will fill the atmosphere as people throw abeer and gulal in the air showing great joy and mirth in the arrival of this Spring Festival. Holi marks the end of the winter gloom and rejoices in the bloom of the spring time. It is the best time and season to celebrate; Holi provides this opportunity and people take every advantage of it.

Days before Holi, the markets get flooded with the colours of every hues. This aptly sets the mood of the people till the actual day of Holi. It is such a colourful and joyous sight to watch huge piles of bright red, magenta, pink, green and blue every where on the streets. Buying those colours seems as you are bringing joys and colour to your home and into your life.

Children take special delight in the festival and demand every colour in loads. They have so many plans in their mind. They have to be the first to apply colour to Mama, Papa, siblings and a big bunch of friends in their colony. Nobody could miss being coloured by them and of course, they need colour for that.

These days it is easy to buy colours from the market but still some people do take up the task of making colours at home, usually from flowers of tesu and palash. These home made colours, have a special fragrance of love in them. The other option is to buy gulal which comes in bright shades of pink, magenta, red, yellow and green. 'Abeer' is made of small crystals or paper like chips of mica. This is mixed with the gulal for a rich shine. Mischievous ones, however, go for silver and gold paints on which no colour could be applied. Whatever be the choice of colour, nobody remains in their original texture at the end of the play. And everybody takes delight looking at the other. Really, the other name of the festival is FUN.

And, it is not just children, but the young and the old alike who take delight in this joyous festival of colours. Seniors too, move in their tolis. Their enthusiasm is at times greater than that of their children as they forget the bars of age and follow their hearts. To youth, holi gives a chance to explore the heights of their enthusiasm as they climb the human pyramids to break the pot of buttermilk and to express their love to their beloved by applying colour. For, Holi knows no bars, everybody feels it is their right to enjoy and enjoy they do. Songs, dance, drinks, food everything goes in excess when it is time for Holi. It can be said, "Life turns Colourful" when it is time for Holi

Legends A Hindu festival, Holi has various legends associated with it. The foremost is the legend of demon King Hiranyakashyap who demanded everybody in his kingdom to worship him but his pious son, Prahlad became a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap wanted his son to be killed. He asked his sister Holika to enter a blazing fire with Prahlad in her lap as Holika had a boon which made her immune to fire. Story goes that Prahlad was saved by lord himself for his extreme devotion and evil minded Holika was burnt to ashes, for her boon worked only when she entered the fire alone.

Since that time, people light a bonfire, called Holika on the eve of Holi festival and celebrate the victory of good over evil and also the triumph of devotion to god. Children take special delight in the tradition and this has another legend attached to it. It says that there was once an ogress Dhundhi who used to trouble children in the kingdom of Prithu. She was chased away by children on the day of Holi. Therefore, children are allowed to play pranks at the time of 'Holika Dahan'. Some also celebrate

the death of evil minded Pootana. The ogress tried to Lord Krishna as an infant by feeding it poisonous milk while executing the plan of Kansa, Krishna's devil uncle. However, Krishna sucked her blood and brought her end. Some who view the origin of festivals from seasonal cycles believe that Pootana represents winter and her death the cessation and end of winter. In South India, people worship Kaamadeva- the god of love and passion for his extreme sacrifice. According to a legend, Kaamadeva shot his powerful love arrow on Lord Shiva to revoke his interest in the worldly affairs in the interest of the earth. However, Lord Shiva was enraged as he was in deep mediation and opened his third eye which reduced Kaamadeva to ashes. Though, later on the request of Rati, Kaamadeva's wife, Shiva was pleased to restore him back.

Holika Dahan

On the eve of Holi, called Chhoti or Small Holi people gather at important crossroads and light huge bonfires, the ceremony is called Holika Dahan. This tradition is also followed in Gujarat and Orissa. To render gratefulness to Agni, god of Fire, gram and stalks from the harvest are also offered to Agni with all humility. Ash left from this bonfire is also considered sacred and people apply it on their foreheads. People believe that the ash protects them from evil forces.

Play of Colors

Great excitement can be seen in people on the next day when it is actually the time for the play of colours. Shops and offices remain closed for the day and people get all the time to get crazy and whacky. Bright colours of gulal and abeer fill the air and people take turns in pouring colour water over each other. Children take special delight in spraying colours on one another with their pichkaris and throwing water balloons and passers by. Women and senior citizen form groups called tolis and move in colonies - applying colours and exchanging greetings. Songs, dance on the rhythm of dholak and mouthwatering Holi delicacies are the other highlights of the day.

Significance of Different Colors Red - Purity Green - Vitality Blue - Calm and sedateness

Yellow - Pious feeling .

Expression of Love

Lovers too long to apply colours on their beloved. This has a popular legend behind it. It is said that the naughty and mischievous Lord Krishna started the trend of playing colours. He applied colour on his beloved Radha to make her one like him. The trend soon gained popularity amongst the masses. No wonder, there is no match to the Holi of Mathura, Vrindavan and Barsana - the places associated with the birth and childhood of Radha and Krishna.

Ecstasy of Bhang

There is also a tradition of consuming the very intoxicating bhang on this day to further enhance the spirit of Holi. It is so much fun to watch the otherwise sober people making a clown of themselves in full public display. Some, however, take bhang in excess and spoil the spirit. Caution should therefore be taken while consuming bhang delicacies.

Sober Evening

After a fun-filled and exciting day, the evenings spent in sobriety when people meet friends and relatives and exchange sweets and festive greetings. It is said the spirit of Holi encourages the feeling of brotherhood in society and even the enemies turn friends on this day. People of all communities and even religions participate in this joyous and colourful festival and strengthen the secular fabric of the nation.

Mythological Significance

Holi also celebrates the legend of Radha and Krishna which describes the extreme delight Krishna took in applying colour on Radha and other gopis. This prank of Krishna later became a trend and a part of the Holi festivities. Mythology also states that Holi is the celebration of death of Ogress Pootana who tried to kill infant, Krishna by feeding poisonous milk to it. Another legend of Holi which is extremely popular in Southern India is that of Lord Shiva and Kaamadeva. According to the legend, people in south celebrate the sacrifice of Lord of Passion Kaamadeva who risked his life to revoke Lord Shiva from meditation and save the world. Also popular is the legend of Ogress Dhundhi who used to trouble children in the kingdom of Raghu and was ultimately chased away by the pranks of the children on the day of Holi. Showing their belief in the legend, children till date play pranks and hurl abuses at the time of Holika Dahan. Cultural Significance

Celebration of the various legends associated with Holi reassure the people of the power of truth and that the moral of all these legends is the ultimate victory of

good over evil. The legend of Hiranyakashyap and Prahlad also points to the fact that extreme devotion to god pays as god always takes his true devotee under his shelter. All these legends help the people to follow a good conduct in their lives and believe in the virtue of being truthful. This is extremely important in the modern day society when so many people resort to evil practices for small gains and torture one who is honest. Holi helps the people to believe in the

virtue of being truthful and honest and also to fight away the evil. Besides, holi is celebrated at a time of the year when the fields are in full bloom and people are expecting a good harvest. This gives them a good reason to rejoice, make merry and submerge themselves in the spirit of Holi.

Social Significance

Holi helps to bring the society together and strengthen the secular fabric of our country. The festival is also celebrated by non-Hindus as everybody like to be a part of such a colourful and joyous festival. Moreover, during the Holi festivals even the enemies turn friends and forget any feeling of hardship that may be present. Besides, on this day people do not differentiate between the rich and poor and everybody celebrate the festival together with a spirit of bonhomie and

brotherhood. In the evening people visit friends and relatives and exchange gifts, sweets and greetings. This helps in revitalising relationships and strengthening emotional bonds between people.

Biological Significance

It is interesting to note that the festival of Holi is significant for our lives and body in many other ways than providing joy and fun. We also need to thank our forefathers who started the trend of celebrating Holi at such a scientifically accurate time. And, also for incorporating so much fun in the festival. As Holi comes at a time of the year when people have a tendency to feel sleepy and lazy. This is natural for the body to experiences some tardiness due to the change from the cold to the heat in the atmosphere. To counteract this tardiness of the body, people sing loudly or even speak loudly. Their movements are brisk and their music is loud. All of this helps to rejuvenate the system of the human body. Moreover, the colours when sprayed on the body have a great impact on it. Biologists believe the liquid dye or Abeer penetrates the body and enters into the pores. It has the effect of strengthening the ions in the body and adds health and beauty to it. There is yet another scientific reason for celebrating the Holi, this however pertains to the tradition of Holika Dahan. The mutation period of winter and spring induces the growth of bacteria in the atmosphere as well as in the body. When Holika is burnt, temperature rises to about 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Following the tradition when people perform Parikrima (circumambulation or going around) around the fire, the heat from the fire kills the bacteria in the body thus, cleansing it. People also clean-up their houses on Holi which helps in clearing up the

dust and mess in the house and get rid of mosquitoes and others pests. A clean house generally makes the residents feel good and generate positive energies.

The Evening of Bonfires

Holika Dahan or the lighting of bonfire takes place on the eve of Holi. The day is also popularly called 'Chhoti Holi' or the 'Small Holi'.The bigger event - play with the colour takes place on the next 'big' day. Holika Dahan is an extremely popular tradition and is celebrated with fervour all across the country and is symbolic of triumph of good over evil. There are numerous legends associated with this ancient tradition and it is difficult to pin-point as to when actually the tradition started.

Holi Pooja Process

Holi Pooja takes place a day before the Holi Festival. This day is called as 'Holika Dahan'. There is no special pooja performed on the Holi day. This day is only meant for celebrations and play of colors. Holika Dahan is the major ritual performed at the time of Holi which is also considered an important Holi Puja. People light bonfires on the eve of Holi festival to celebrate the victory of 'good' over 'bad' which is called Holika Dahan.

Holi Pooja Process or Holika Dahan Process

Holika Dahan preparations begin almost 40 days before the festival. People start gathering woods on the important crossroads of the city. Holi Pooja or Holika takes place on an auspicious time in the evening a day before the Holi festival. Given below are the steps and rituals for the Holi Pooja:

Ideas for Holi Gifts

In case you are still not able to think of a special gift for your dear ones here are some novel Holi gift ideas just for you. Mithai / Sweets/ Chocolates: Sweets always go with the festival mood in India. To enliven the spirit of the Holi festival gift your dear ones a box of sweets like gujjiya. It is the most popular and favorite gift of Holi. A chocolate box can also be presented, which is an all time favorite gift item.

Apparels: In India, people love to gift clothes on different festivals. At the time of Holi, special saree called Dandia can be gifted to married daughters. 'Lakhnavi Chikankari' kurtas/kurtis can be gifted both to men and women and make a wonderful gift option for your sweetheart. Beautifully designed suits, skirts and shirts also fall in the category of Holi gift options.

Dry Fruits: Any moment can be made special with dry fruits as a gift. Dry fruits fall in the category of classy gift items. Pack the dry fruits in a designer box to make a lasting impression.

Holi Color Pack: An attractive Holi color pack symbolizes the importance of colors and the spirit of the festival. These days Holi colour packs are readily available in the marker. These usually include magical colors, sprays, gulal, water colors and balloons.

Cassettes and CDs: To bring in the fun and verve to the festival gift a cassette or CD of special Holi songs.

Holi Gift Hampers: A huge variety of Holi gift hampers are available in the market. These hampers consists of beautifully designed trays with sweets, idol of Lord Krishna, diyas, gulal, abeer etc.

Wall or Door Hangings: Wall Hangings are always considered a good gift item to be presented on a festive occasion. For Holi, wall hangings of Lord Ganesha or Lord Krishna is a good option. Traditionally crafted door hangings can also be gifted as people love to adorn their houses on festivals.

Idols: To give a devotional feel to Holi celebrations, idols of Lord Krishna and Radha can be gifted.

Gifts for Kids: If you wish to get closer to the naughty kid's heart then water gun sprinklers, masks and colored hats is what you should think of. These gifts will be cherished by children and will immediately make you their favorite!!

Holi Gifts for Girlfriend: Drench your girlfriend in the spirit of Holi by gifting her a sweet and romantic gift item. A chocolate box teamed with the famous Lucknowi Chikan Kurta is an ethnic and heart touching Holi gift for the special lady in your life. You can also gift your sweetheart a teddy bear, jewelry box or a stylish necklace set.

Holi Gifts for Boyfriend: Gift your boyfriend something special this Holi and make him feel loved!! An interesting Holi Gift idea for your dashing boyfriend could be an ethnic Kurta Pyajama set. Besides, you can go for accessories like wallets, bracelets and cufflinks. Chocolates, dry fruits and sweets are always an open Holi Gift option for him.

Tradition of Bhang

Associated with Lord Shiva, bhang has now become synonymous with holi. To the extent that bhang drinks have now become an official Holi drink. Culled from the leaves and buds of cannabis - the very intoxicating bhang helps to escalate the spirit of holi - a festival which does not recognise any restrictions. Lip smacking thandai, pakoras and vadas, all having bhang as a very essential ingredient, are savoured by all on the day.

Tradition of Thandai

Thandai is embedded with the tradition of Holi. A refreshing and healthful drink thandai is savoured in the midst of the play of colours when people become a little exhausted throwing each other in the pool of coloured waters. A glass of Thandai offers instant energy and sets the mood for playing with color. Besides, when laced with the intoxicating bhang it can make one sing, dance and go wild. In fact, bhang thandai is used as a mood setter for the festival of Holi.

Holi in Film Industry

No other industry has been so influenced by Holi as much as Bollywood. Creative as they are, big actors and actress have made it a point to enjoy to the hilt when it comes to Holi. In fact, Holi at RK Studio is as famous in Mumbai as that of Mathura in UP. Also, much popular is the Holi at Pratiksha, the famous residence of megastar, Amitabh Bachchan. The trend of Holi celebration in film industry was initiated by showman Raj Kapoor, who started Holi celebration in a big way at his studio. A large number of industry people would gather there and play holi, making it a star-studded event. The tradition that was followed was that anybody who came would first be greeted with a dip in the pool of coloured water. Kapoors also took care that women were treated with dignity and nobody misbehaved with them. Holi at RK Studio continues to be an event to watch in Mumbai as the next generation of Kapoors have made it a point to continue with the tradition.

Holi Around the World

Holi knows no bars, Holi knows no boundaries too. Across the world wherever Indians or people of Indian origin are present Holi is celebrated with gusto and bonhomie. People play with colours, light a bonfire called Holika and celebrate the victory of good over evil. Well, the essence of any festival is to take a break from the daily humdrum of life and make it interesting. The other major intention of celebrating festival is to bring people together and generate a feeling of brotherhood and spread harmony all around. Nobody realizes the importance of celebrating festivals than the Indians settled abroad away from their country and cultural roots. At times they are more eager to celebrate festivals than their Indian counterparts. For celebrating festivals is what binds the people of Indian origin together and also to their roots. Just as in India, people settled abroad meet their friends and exchange sweets and greetings. Of course, the revelry is no less when it comes to colours.

Holi Mahotsav in Australia - A Grand Celebration of Color, Frienship and Harmony

In one of the biggest celebrations of colors, friendship and harmony, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia has celebrated the Holi Mahotsav from the past five years at Tumbalong Park at Darling Harbor in Sydney. Initially celebrated for a day, the festival is now celebrated over two days with tens of thousands attending this free family event to experience an exciting and vibrant mix of music, dance, color, exhibitions, food and festivities.

The festival begins with the arrival of the beautifully decorated chariot, ‘Rath’ of Lord Jagannatha, devotionally hand drawn from Hyde Park walking through the main streets of Sydney CBD by the ISKCON devotees. Celebrated fervently in Puri, Orissa, millions flock to see and pull the grand

chariots in the annual Rath Yatra in India. In Sydney, it is a very beautiful occasion as Sydneysiders join in, amidst divine chants of Hare Rama, Hare Krishna.

At the end of the first day, a traditional bonfire’ Holika’ is lit and amidst holy chants guests are invited to partake the warmth and cheer that traditionally symbolizes the burning of evil and the emergence of the good from the fire.

A bevy of talented dancers, singers, models and performers some as young as five years provide the entertainment for the eager crowds. Performances ranging from the classic forms of dance including Bharatnatyam and Kathakali to the more modern Bollywood dance numbers are brilliantly performed by various dance and cultural schools.

Last year, the various presentations were enjoyed by the audiences who listened with rapt attention to the Yoga, Ayurveda and the Art of Living techniques. The Ayurveda live demonstration was particularly enjoyed by everyone especially the young children who crowded around the stage to marvel at the interesting Yogic

techniques practiced by Indian masters from centuries. A unique Bhajan and Kirtan session, devotional songs invoking the blessings of the Almighty was performed by ISKCON with a special devotee coming all the way from Vladivostok, Russia to join in the Holi celebrations.

A huge selection of delectable vegetarian dishes and mouth watering Indian sweets were presented by the leading restaurants in their stalls. Chiefly amongst them, Zaafraan, Maya Indian Sweets, Chutney, Govinda’s and others added their delicious flavor to complete the Holi Mahotsav 2007 experience. Traditional Indian drinks such as the ever popular, sugarcane juice, the refreshing and nutritious Mango lassi and the typical road side ‘Gola’ made from crushed ice, lemon syrup and spiced salt proved to be the perfect thirst quenchers on the beautiful sunny day.

The color throwing session on the second day was particularly enjoyed by children and adults alike, boys and girls with color smeared faces and clothes enthusiastically wished a Happy Holi to everyone and looked forward to a colorful and bright new year.

The Holi Mahotsav 2007 concluded with a bhajan and kirtan session by ISKCON devotees where members of the audience also joined in the rhythmic chanting. Visitors thanked Bhavan Australia for the exciting two days filled with joyous merrymaking. As the Holi Mahotsav 2007 drew to a close, everyone is now looking forward to the Holi Mahotsav 2008 which promises to be bigger and more enlightening and entertaining.

- Contributed by Rajesh Katakdhond

Food Stall Holders

■ Curries India 2go

■ Curry Leaf (Royal India Restaurant)

■ Govinda's (ISKCON Sydney)

■ Jai Maa Pty Ltd

■ Planet Bollywood Pty Ltd

■ Thandaii (Ritesh Agarwal)

■ Sabi Food Intl Pty Ltd

■ Stay Cool Tropical Snow

■ Coffee Dreams

Merchandise Stall Holders

■ Ausindia Holidays

■ Bank of Baroda

■ Bhart Matrimony.com

■ Bhavan Cares

■ Charindaa

■ Exotic India

■ Gocool Sugar cane Juicery

■ Hura Tattoo Artist

■ Indian Link

■ MIT Sydney Campus

■ Saileen Fashions

■ Shaadi.com

■ The Indian

■ UAE Exchange Australia Pty. Ltd.

■ Vision Asia Pty. Ltd.

Voice of India Monica Geetmala

Radio Mirchi Navtarang Media Network

Rani ( Queen ) Lakshmibai of Jhansi

‘She led the Indian mutiny in 1857, the first armed uprising against the British rule’

Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi was probably the bravest of all the leaders who fought for India’s independence against the mighty British. She died in battle as she led the Indian mutiny in 1857, the first armed uprising against British rule. Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi will always be remem-bered for her unbreakable patriotism and astonishing courage. In the early part of 1800, when the British were already well established in India, Manikarnika or Manu (the maiden name of Lakshmibai) was born in the family of a courtier, Moropant, in Bittoor, a place located in Cen-tral India.

When Manu reached marriageable age, quite unexpectedly, a marriage proposal came from the Maharaja (king) of Jhansi. She was married a year later, in 1842. Manu was named Rani or

queen Lakshmibai, after the goddess of wealth and victory.

The Maharaja was also unwell and was worried that he had no successor to the throne. He knew the British would not lose the opportunity to take over the kingdom of Jhansi if it were left without an heir. He quickly arranged to adopt a son in November, 1853. On the following day, the Maharaja died. The prince was still a minor. Lakshmibai decided to run the kingdom until the adopted son reached maturity. It was not easy for a woman to be the head of state at that time. Rani Lakshmibai faced many difficulties but she ran the kingdom well. She mastered the martial arts, and in-spired Jhansi's women to join the army and take a more active role in defending the country. The British were deter-mined to take over the kingdom Jhansi. So they objected to the adoption. When the Indian soldiers of the Meerut garri-son heard the rumor that their rifle cartridges, which they cut with their teeth, were greased with lard and cow fat, both Muslims and Hindus revolted as eating pork is against the Muslim faith, and eating beef is against the Hindu faith.

On May 9, 1857, British officers were shot and prison inmates were released. The rebelling nationalist soldiers marched to Delhi and received a warm welcome from the citizens. The aged ex-emperor, Bahadur Shah, was reinstated to the Mughal throne and Delhi became the nationalist soldiers' headquarters. Later they seized Lucknow and Satara and pushed the British soldiers southwards to Jhansi. The British approached Rani Lakshmibai for refuge but the Rani refused, saying that she could not betray her fellow Indians. The British army was totally uprooted and the nationalist soldiers returned to Delhi. The British, however, were shrewd politicians and highly organized. Their soldiers were better equipped and better trained. They recaptured Delhi on September 2, 1857 with the help of their Indian allies. All but three of the independent states surrendered and their rulers became British puppets. The three exceptions were: The Rani of Jhansi, Tantia Topi and Rao Sahib Peshwa. The people of Jhansi unanimously supported their queen and as-sured her that they would lay down their lives to defend Jhansi. On March 25, 1858, the British attacked Jhansi with a huge army equipped with powerful cannons.

With the help of traitors, they entered the fort at night in overwhelming numbers. Rani Lakshmibai went underground and the British were disappointed when they captured the fort. To take out their wrath, they burnt the ex-cellent state library, ransacked the palace and shot Rani Lakshmibai's followers. Rani Lakshmibai escaped to Rao Sa-hib Peshwa’s camp at Kalpi. The British heard of this and prepared to attack Kalpi. Rani Lakshmibai was worried that Rao Sahib Peshwa had left himself open to attack from the rear and suggested a change in his battle formations. Rao Sahib Peshwa did not think any woman could teach him how to wage war and ignored her suggestions. As a result, Kalpi fell into the hands of the British on May 24, 1858. The rebels then sought shelter at the Gwalior fort. The king of Gwalior was not willing to give up his fort without a fight as he was afraid of the British.

But the soldiers laid down their arms in respect for the Rani of Jhansi. Thus the rebels entered Gwalior without a fight. The British wasted no time in attacking Gwalior. It was the fiercest, bloodiest battle ever fought on Indian soil. Lakshmibai's courage, strength, and ability, as she valiantly fought the British army's vastly superior forces, are re-membered to this day. She died fighting and Gwalior was captured. Tantia Topi was hanged and Rao Sahib escaped. India became free in August, 1947, after a long struggle of nearly one hundred years.

Reproduced from Bhavan Australia 2.5 April 2005

Editorial Page Current Board of Directors

Publisher & Managing Editor: Gambhir Watts

president@bhavanaustralia.org

Editorial Committee: J Rao Palagummi Catherine Knox

Rajesh Katakdhond editors@bhavanaustralia.org

Designing Team:

Utkarsh Doshi J Rao Palagummi

Advertising:

info@bhavanaustralia.org

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia Suite 100 / 515 Kent Street,

Sydney NSW 2000

* The views of contributors to Bhavan Australia are not necessarily the views of

Bhavan Australia or the editor. *Bhavan Australia reserves the right to edit any contributed articles and letters submitted for publication. Copyright: all advertisements and original editorial material appearing remain the property of Bhavan Australia and may not be reproduced except with the written consent of the owner of the copyright.

Bhavan Australia - ISSN 1449 – 3551

Office Bearers :

Other directors are:

Abbas Raza Alvi; Moksha Watts

Nominees of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Worldwide:

Homi Navroji Dastur, Executive Secretary and Director General

Jagannathan Veeraraghavan, Executive Director, Delhi

Mathoor Krishnamurti, Executive Director, Bangalore

Palladam Narayana Sathanagopal, Additional Registar

P. A Ramakrishnan, Executive Vice Chairman, Puthoucode (Kerala)

President Gambhir Watts

Treasurer Catherine Knox

Chairman Emeritus Surendralal Mehta- President Bhavan Worldwide

Company Secretary Sridhar Kumar Kondepudi

Articles & Focus Themes

Holi Mahotsav 2008 Performance Schedule 4

Message from Clr Sonya Phillips, Mayor Baulkham Hills Shire Council 12

Message from Dr Robert Lank, CEO SHFA 8

Message from Cr Robert Furolo. Mayor of City of Canterbury 12

Message from Sujatha Singh, High Commissioner for India 7

Message by Ron Hoenig, Mayor city of Botany Bay 13

Message from Hon Laurie Ferguson MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services

10 Massage from Vara Nayaka Das, President ISKCON Sydney 16

Message from Senator Hon. Chris Ellison 10 Message from Swami Maheshwarananda, Yoga in Daily Life 17

Message from the Premier Morris Imeema MP 11 The Grand Festival of Colours - HOLI 20

Message from Dr Stepan Keryasharian, Chair Community Relations Commission for a Multicultural NSW

11 Rani (Queen) Lakshmibai of Jhansi 27

Holy & Wise

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side - Rigveda, I-89-I

The Test of Bhavan’s Right to Exist

The test of Bhavan's right to exist is whether those who work for it in different spheres and in different places and those who study in its many institutions can develop a sense of mission as would enable them to translate the fundamental values, even in a small measure, into their individual life.

Creative vitality of a culture consists in this: whether the ‘best’ among those who belong to it, however small their number, find self-fulfilment by living up to the fundamental values of our ageless culture.

It must be realised that the history of the world is a story of men who had faith in themselves and in their mission. When an age does not produce men of such faith, its culture is on its way to extinction. The real strength of the Bhavan, therefore, would lie not so much in the number of its buildings or institutions it conducts, nor in the volume of its assets and budgets, nor even in its growing publication, cultural and educational activities. It would lie in the character, humility, selflessness and dedicated work of its devoted workers, honorary and stipendiary. They alone can release the regenerative influences, bringing into play the invisible pressure which alone can transform human nature

Kulpativani - Voice of Kulpati Dr K.M. Munshi - Bhavan’s Founder

Purpose of Life

No one can be his true self, unless he consecrates himself thus. Most of us try to feed our personality on activities which have no organic relations with ourselves.

One is in a profession when he ought to be consecrated to the salvage of culture, may be through these very activities. How many of us have definite and divine purpose of life? If so, how many have the readiness to become but an instrument? But life is not longer; our capacities are not large. We tread the path of death when we seek to purpose all paths that appear open.

Our aims, our friends our interests are those of dilettante. They do not look one way ekagra as they should, if we were but His instruemnets

Namami narayana padapankajam Karomi Narayana poojanam sadaa I pay obeisance to His lotus feet I forever worship Narayana. - Kulashekhara’s Mukund Mala Imagination is intelligence having fun. - Albert Einstein