The relationship between NSW and India has grown in the past year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Australia in 28 years and the NSW Government facilitated the lighting of the Sydney Opera House a golden orange in celebration of Deepavali.

We are proud of our diversity and always encourage contributions from cultures from around the world to our rich society

Mike Baird  , said, “I am delighted to offer my warmest greetings to everyone attending the Holi Mela  Festival of Colours, one of the largest Hindu festivals on the calendar”.

He further added, “This is a wonderful festival that allows members of Sydney’s Indian community to come together to celebrate, while inviting fellow Australians from other backgrounds to experience some of the best of Indian culture”.

On behalf of the NSW Government, Mike Baird  ,congratulated the organisers and  said ,“I wish the organisers of the Holi  Mela Festival of Colours a successful event and wish everyone attending a pleasant day”.

He further added ,”It’s wonderful to have the Holi Mela Festival of Colours as part of the calendar of events for Multicultural March, the NSW Government’s annual celebration of the State’s cultural diversity”.

I was proud to have my first overseas mission this year to India at the personal invitation of Prime Minister  Narendra  Modi and was struck by the beauty and vibrancy of the country.