Last Saturday, Powerhouse Castle Hill came alive with the joyous celebration of Diwali, thanks to a collaboration between the Consulate General of India, Sydney, and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre. Volunteers played a crucial role in making the event a success, assisting with a variety of engaging activities.
The festivities kicked off with enchanting performances from local artists, including the Karpahavalli Music Academy showcasing Carnatic music and the Nrityam Sydney Dance Studio performing lively Bollywood choreography. The Kalashree Dance Institute presented the traditional Koli Dance, while the Kiyara Dance Academy captivated audiences with graceful Odissi dance.
Participants also enjoyed hands-on activities, such as the Rangoli Workshop led by Sandhya Srinivasan, where families created colourful artwork. Storytelling sessions by award-winning author Susanne Gervay OAM enriched the experience, bringing the tales of Diwali to life. One of the highlights of the day was the guided Textile Tours led by curator Bhavna Shivalkar, which captivated attendees with the beauty and significance of Indian textiles.
A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers for their initiative, dedication, and assistance in helping with the activities. Your efforts made the day a tremendous success, and we look forward to more vibrant celebrations in the future!
by Karen Griffiths, Volunteer Programs Officer
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