The Western Australian Parliament lit up in the glow of Diwali lights and decorations at Parliament House on the evening of October 14, 2025, as the Festival of Lights brought together more than 160 attendees, including parliamentarians, community representatives, faith leaders, and volunteers. 

Among the dignitaries present were the Premier of Western Australia (WA), Roger Cook; Minister for Multicultural Interests, Commerce, Tertiary and International Education, Tony Buti; and the Consul General (CG) of India to Western Australia and the Northern Territory, Kajari Biswas, along with other distinguished guests and representatives from across Western Australia’s diverse communities.

Marking the 10th anniversary of Diwali celebrations at Parliament House, this year’s theme, “Our Community, Our Light,” was hosted by the WA Parliament in collaboration with BAPS. Reflecting on the occasion, Dylan Wadia, BAPS volunteer, said it had been “inspiring to witness the WA Parliament embrace Diwali as its own, year after year.” 

He added that “the celebration stands as a powerful reflection of Australia’s spirit, one that honors its diversity while strengthening the shared light of our community.”

On this occasion, in an exclusive with South Asian Herald, on October 14, Minister Buti, extended his best wishes to everyone celebrating Diwali across Western Australia: “Diwali is a time that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. When we come together, the spark of our shared culture turns into a flame that burns bright, and that is cause for celebration.”

Buti emphasized the importance of inclusion, opportunity, and the vital contributions of culturally and linguistically diverse communities to Western Australia’s development. “Our multiculturalism is invaluable and irreplaceable. The Cook Labor Government is focused on ensuring our multicultural community can thrive.”

The evening featured official speeches, acknowledgements, vibrant cultural performances and the dignitaries were felicitated with garlands, while messages of unity, gratitude, and hope echoed through the historic halls of Parliament House. 

CG Biswas also addressed the Parliament, highlighting the deeper significance of Diwali, noting that the festival, observed “on the darkest night of autumn in the Indian subcontinent,” symbolizes “the power of a single flickering flame to cut through darkness,” representing “courage, truth, knowledge, and righteousness to unite humanity against strife and ignorance.”

CG Biswas highlighted the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“the world is one family”), “which lies at the heart of India’s worldview.” She thanked the Parliamentarians and people of Western Australia “for the opportunity to share this message and to convey the love and unity embedded in our festivals and traditions,” and noted that the spirit of bringing people together and fostering understanding “forms the foundation of strong and enduring Australia–India relations.”

Reflecting on the evening, community leader and City of Canning (Bannister Ward) candidate Tani Saha said, “The Diwali decorations and the vibrant community presence reflected the true spirit of diversity and inclusion that we proudly celebrate in WA. The evening beautifully captured the essence of unity, service, and shared harmony, values that continue to enrich our wonderfully diverse society.”

The WA Parliament celebration followed other major Diwali events across Perth earlier in October. The Diwali Mela at Langley Park, featuring Swan River fireworks on October 4 and 5, attracted approximately 40,000 visitors. Organized by the Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA) and supported by the Office of Multicultural Interests, the event received $500,000 under the Cook Labor Government’s Global Connections through Local Events initiative.

Buti described the Diwali Mela as a showcase of the achievements of the Indian Society of Western Australia, highlighting it as a celebration of inclusion, opportunity, and community engagement, “core values that reflect Western Australia’s shared cultural identity.”

According to ISWA Vice President and Diwali Mela Coordinator, Divya Sharma, the event was “a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and entertainment,” drawing thousands of visitors against the backdrop of Swan River. She said live performances showcased Western Australia’s multicultural talent, Bollywood stars added glamour, and family-friendly attractions included kids’ rides, inflatables, an outdoor movie, and sports activities with Women’s Asian Cup players, Perth Glory and West Coast Eagles, as well as BMX and FMX stunt shows.

Sharma also highlighted that visitors enjoyed a wide range of Indian and multicultural cuisine, explored community, ethnic, and jewelry stalls, played traditional Indian games, and discovered sustainability initiatives like “Restyle Your Closet.” WA Police vehicles and interactive exhibits were on display, and mobility support was provided for seniors and guests with special needs.

Describing the Mela, Sharma said it was “more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of light, culture, community, and togetherness.” Buti noted that the event was “a great example of how a community association like ISWA can empower its members and champion culture,” while also congratulating ISWA’s volunteers, performers, and everyone involved in creating this memorable occasion.

Extending the festive spirit across Australia, Adelaide’s 10th Year Ganesh Utsav Festival drew approximately 15,000 attendees to AFL Max Stadium. Organized by the United Indians of South Australia Inc. (UIOSA) and supported by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, South Australia, the two-day celebration featured a grand community parade, traditional music, cultural performances, and the installation of the largest Ganesha idol outside India, standing an awe-inspiring 21 feet tall. 

“For the people of Adelaide, the Ganesh Utsav is more than a spiritual observance; it’s a celebration of togetherness, multiculturalism, and harmony,” said Virender of UIOSA.

Meanwhile, Sydney’s cultural calendar was illuminated when the Art Gallery of New South Wales, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) and the Consulate General of India, hosted a Diwali celebration at the iconic venue, with another event planned later this month at the Powerhouse, Castle Hill.

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