Julian Leeser MP, Federal Member for Berowra, surprised guests with a Bollywood-style dance performance at the Indian Club Diwali 2018 Celebration last weekend.
In the lead-up to Diwali on 7 November 2018, Mr Leeser joined local community members at Cherrybrook Community and Cultural Centre to celebrate.
“I was honoured to perform at the India Club’s Diwali celebration this year. There was a magical atmosphere and as always Aksheya and Shubha Kumar from the India Club put on a tremendous show,” Mr Leeser said.
“There are around 6,500 people with an Indian background living in Berowra who make a much valued contribution to our local community. I always look forward to this time of year where family and friends come together to embrace life and prosperity in the face of trials and tribulations,” Mr Leeser said.
Mr Leeser is looking forward to continuing the celebrations this weekend when he joins 500 Hornsby residents and guests at Deepavli Milan 2018 held at Hornsby RSL Club. The event will mark the 10th anniversary of the organisation and the event proceeds will be donated to war widows.
“This year we are celebrating two milestones – the Centenary of the Armistice that ended the First World War and the 10th Anniversary of Deepavali Milan. It is lovely to see these two anniversaries merging in such a spectacular fashion. We are celebrating good triumphing evil through Diwali, while paying tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in war. I would like to congratulate Colonel Virander Sahni for this timely and touching tribute,” Mr Leeser said.
This year, Mr Leeser has accepted a cooking challenge by famous Indian Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi.
Mr Singh Sokhi posted a video on social media challenging Mr Leeser to join him in a public cook-off at the Hindu Council of Australia’s flagship Diwali event.
Today, Mr Leeser accepted the challenge and will cook a traditional Indian curry as part of the showcase.
“Each year I have been privileged to take part in a number of festive community events to honour one of India’s most vibrant and beloved festivals. Previously I have delivered speeches in Hindi, and performed Indian dance routines; however cooking is taking it to a whole new level. I am delighted to accept Mr Singh Sokhi’s cook-off challenge.”
“As the Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of India, I would like to wish all the people in the Indian Australian community a very happy Diwali,” Mr Leeser said.
Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama and his family after 14 years of exile, during which he defeated the demon king, Ravana. To honour Lord Rama’s return and his victory, the villagers’ lit diyas to illuminate their path and celebrate the belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.
