The celebration of the Diwali and Annakut festivals at the Western Australia Parliament was co-hosted by the Honourable Dr. Mike Nahan, Treasurer, Minsister for Energy, Citizenship and Multicultural Interests and BAPS.
Over 90 people, including respected Members of Parliament, leaders of various Hindu communities, and BAPS guests, attended the event held in the Aboriginal People’s Room of the WA Parliament.
Hon. Dr Michael Nahan, Hon. Mark McGowan (Leader of the Opposition) and others inaugurated the occasion by lighting the traditional divo.
During their keynote address, Hon. Mike Nahan and Hon. Mark McGowan both acknowledged the richness and significant contributions made by the Indian community to Australia. Both reflected on the values of Hinduism and Diwali, and were proud to see them being displayed in the WA Parliament.
The highlight of the event was the delightful and decorative annakut display that was setup in the WA Parliament.
To commemorate the Diwali and Hindu New Year festivals, the WA Parliament house was lit up and glowed red and orange for the 8 days until 8 November 2016.