More than 450 invited guests attended the premiere of Mystic India (35 mm version) at the Greater Union Cinema in Perth, Australia, on Friday 28 November 2008.
The guests were greeted harmonious melodies of the sitar and tabla performed live by artistes amid traditional settings. The entrance foyer was beautifully adorned with colors of the Indian flag where children greeted the guests in traditional manner by showering rose petals. Then, as a mark of friendship the youngsters of BAPS tied a nadachadi (sacred wrist band) on each guest.
Also, inside the foyer was an array of artistic Indian rangoli designs and a traditional kathak dance.
Kunal Patel, the emcee for the evening, started with a prayer for the unfortunate victims of the Mumbai attacks that had devastated India just two days before.
The Chief Guest of the evening, the Consul General of India, Ms. Sushma Paul, expressed her gratitude to the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha for the production of a film that so truly depicts the very essence of India and more importantly, offers an idea for peace.
The Honorable Mr. Colin Barnett, Premier of Western Australia, sent his regards stating, “I congratulate the Swaminarayan Sanstha on its contribution to Western Australia’s vibrant cultural and religious life and for making such a positive and beneficial difference to our community”.
Distinguished guests Albert and Florinda De’ Cruz mentioned, “We hope the message of the great Swami will permeate our society so that we can live in peace and tranquility in the knowledge that truth and good will always prevail.”
The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all.