'The whole world is but one family' - Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia

Messages for Holi Mahotsav 2010
Her Exellency Sujatha Singh, High Commissioner of India in Australia
I am glad to know that the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, in keeping with its tradition of undertaking
activities aimed at strengthening the Indian community’s traditional linkages with the mother
country and promoting multiculturalism in Australia, is bringing out a special ‘Holi Mahotsav’
souvenir issue of its monthly magazine ‘Bhavan Australia’.
Holi, the joyous festival of colours of India heralds Spring. It is celebrated through the width
and breadth of India, irrespective of caste, creed or religion. It is in this spirit that Indians in
Australia as well as fellow Australians gather together on this day, to celebrate this festival in
a spirit of fellow feeling and friendship.
I wish the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan continued success in its endeavours and convey my
greetings to the readers of Bhavan Australia.
Hon Amit Dasgupta, Consul General of India in Sydney
I take pleasure in extending felicitations to the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan (Australia) for, once
again, organizing the Holi Festival in Sydney. It has come to be recognized, in Sydney, as a
major programme, which brings together persons of different backgrounds in the universal
spirit of brotherhood and friendship.
The initiative of the Bhawan in regularly organizing this programme is laudable and the
manner in which the entire resident Indian community has joined hands in making it a success
reflects the strong harmony that exists within the community.
I join all of you in extending peace, happiness and good will on this auspicious occasion to
everyone. Happy Holi!
Honourable Kevin Rudd MP, Prime Minister of Australia
The Holi Mahotsav festival of friendship and harmony, now in its eighth Australian year, has
become a mainstream Sydney festival celebrating Indian culture through dance and music
performances, cultural workshops, meditation sessions, food and merchandise stalls.
Around 250,000 people of Indian heritage live in Australia, and we value their contribution to
our society, our economy and our nation. These people-to-people ties are an integral part of
the strong and growing relationship between Australia and India.
Congratulations to the organisers for their efforts in continuing this great event. I wish
readers of of Bhavan Australia magazine and all those attending Holi Mahotsav an enjoyable
and memorable day.
Swami Sridharnanda, President Vedata Centre Sydney
We are glad to learn that the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan is organizing the Holi Mahotsav
on the 14th March 2010.
Holi is a celebration of the different colours denoting variety but yet reminding us of
the unity behind it. Mythologically, it is the burning of evil in the all consuming fire
like Holika (the demoness) did and protecting the purity of the virtuous (like Prahlada).
Today’s world needs the message of Unity in Diversity and the victory of Virtue and
other spiritual values very much.
May the inspiration of this great festival help us to achieve peace is our humble prayer