SPEECH: Thai Pongal Event - Tamil Arts and Culture Association

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Pongalo Pongal!

It is an absolute pleasure to be with you here today to celebrate Thai Pongal. Happy Pongal everyone!

It is also my privilege to represent the NSW Opposition and Liberal Leader Mark Speakman, who sends his apologies as he is unwell today and therefore unable to be here.

Welcome to the NSW Parliament and thank you for choosing to host this fantastic event here again in the oldest Parliament in Australia, which might I add has recently received a face-lift which I hope you all noticed on your way in.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Tamil community here in New South Wales truly is one of our most vibrant and strongest multicultural communities.

Over many years, time and time again the Tamil community has demonstrated their ability to provide for their community and indeed other communities here in our great state.

From providing invaluable assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic to continuing to engage in various charitable endeavors. Thank you for all you do in our community.

Ladies and gentlemen, Pongal is a special time for your community born out of the traditional celebration of the harvest, it has evolved to represent a time for expressing gratitude, strengthening family bonds, and fostering community spirit.

Pongal embodies the spirit of gratitude and generosity. It teaches us to appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us and to extend a helping hand to those in need.

Here in New South Wales, we take great pride in celebrating this significant cultural and traditional event with our Tamil community.

It has been my pleasure to join with our Tamil community once again at events just like this over many years to celebrate this occasion and to share in some delicious food and great company.

New South Wales is a multicultural success story because of communities like the Tamils and I want to thank you for all you do to enrich our state’s cultural fabric.

I want to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you on this joyous occasion of Pongal. May you and your family receive blessings of abundance, prosperity, and happiness.

Thank you. Nandri.