Diwali

Hansard ID: HANSARD-1323879322-120416

Hansard session: Fifty-Seventh Parliament, First Session (57-1)

Diwali

Mr MARK COURE (Oatley) (18:45:31):

The celebration of Diwali recently took place and it was observed by over a billion people worldwide. This year Diwali began on 4 November and was celebrated for five days. Whether or not we celebrate Diwali, it is a great opportunity for all of us to deepen our appreciation of the Hindu faith and, indeed, the importance of all spirituality. Diwali is considered one of the oldest religious traditions and attracts particular attention in India and the Northern Hemisphere, as well as in the Southern Hemisphere. While the meaning of Diwali varies across religions, like Hinduism and many others, they all share the common underlying message of the triumph of righteousness and the coming together of families and friends.

Each and every day of Diwali carries unique significance. The first day celebrates wealth—and this refers not just to money but to general wellbeing, prosperity and good fortune. The second day marks the recognition of liberation from suffering and commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over the Demon King, freeing the captives. For most observants, the third day is the day of the main festival when the goddess is worshipped and homes are blessed with good fortune and wealth. It is also a day for exchanging gifts and strengthening the communal aspect of Diwali. The fourth day celebrates victory and, for many western Indians, it marks the new year. The final day is a day for prayer and reflection before celebration and a festival of radiation and, of course, lights.

I have developed a great respect and appreciation for the practise of Diwali through my many connections with the local community. I believe its message of the victory of light over darkness has great relevance in our modern world. Additionally, events like Diwali encourage us to strive to be better people and remind us of a purpose in life that is greater than our own ambition. One of the many things I love about being the member for Oatley is the diversity of my local community, which is a multicultural melting pot. Almost 5 per cent of Georges River and local government area residents practise Hinduism, among a variety of other religions. Religious and cultural diversity is something to be celebrated.

I am proud to say that my sons are growing up in an area where they will meet people of many different ethnicities and develop a real understanding and appreciation of so many wonderful cultures across our local community. When it comes to religion, so many common threads bind us together. As a Catholic, I see how Christianity and Hinduism are united on issues such as striving for peace, justice and respect for each and every one of us. I acknowledge the South Asian Australian Association, which has consistently organised one of the largest Diwali events in my electorate of Oatley. The association's celebration is a pivotal event for the St George South Asian community, and over 2,000 people attend each year.

The South Asian Australian Association does amazing work in our local area to develop cultural awareness and preserve Indian language, dance, music and the arts. The South Asian Australian Association is just another example of a fantastic group that we are privileged to have in the St George area, celebrating diversity in culture. Not only does the association work to fulfil its own vision, but also it is influential in fostering great community spirit. Diwali is very much a communal event to be celebrated with friends and loved ones. I also acknowledge RAIN, the Resourceful Australian Indian Network, which also does an amazing job in the Indian community across my local area. Diwali promotes a universal message of the importance of peace, harmony and unity. The celebration of Diwali is an important reminder of lifting the darkness and new beginnings. I hope that this year's celebrations also bring a sense of happiness and belonging.