Australian PM wishes happy 'Deepavali' to Indians

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull today wished happy "Deepavali" to the Indian communityliving here saying the festival is a powerful reminder that our society is greatly enriched by its diversity.
Stating thatDiwali isone of the most important events of the Hindu calender, observed since ancient time,Turnbull said the occassion was "deeply embedded in traditional culture, when families and friends gather together to light diyas, share gifts, and celebrate the triumph of light over darkness."
"Today Deepavaliis enjoyed by many around the world, regardless of background or faith. In Australia, festivities are held in cities, town and homes across our country," he said.

"Such events bring understanding and appreciation to the broader community, andare a powerful reminder that our society is greatly enriched by its diversity. I encourage everyone to be proud of an Australia where people of different backgrounds and beliefs can be part of our national tradition," he said.
Meanwhile, Indian community started the celebrations byattendingDiwali functions, dinnersand festivals which were organisedacross the country.
In Melbourne, a three day-long event came to an end at the Iconic Federation Square buildingon Saturday with a special Diwali festival day whichwas attended by thousands ofIndians as well locals.

Fire works, folk dances, Bollywood dances, singing competition, collaborative fusion dances were part of the annual eventwhich was also attended by some famousAustralian Footy players.

A separate Diwali event was alsoorganised inSandDown racecourse in Melbourne attended byVictorianPremier Daniel Andrews who wished the diaspora on the occassion.
According to an Indian-originlocal councillorIntaj Khan, "Diwali isanimportant festival in the Australian calender andthis year Wyndham council allocated over USD 24,000 towards itscelebration forthe Indian community."
A delegate ofLabor party, Manoj Kumar, said in a bid to showcase diversity to the widercommunity, a group of 300 leaders from Labor party and Trade unions had initiated to celebrate Diwali this year here as an annual event.
Several iconic buildings across the country have been lit up to mark the celebrations including the iconic Sydney Opera House which turned golden between 8 pm (local time) to midnight on October 21 this year.

A traditional ceremonywas held at the venue attended by NSW premier Mike Baird. TheHindu Council of Australia hadalso organised Diwali festivalat Parramatta Park on Sunday featuring several performances, fireworks on the weekend.
Other parts where Diwali festivals were being organised were Perth, Brisbane andCanberra.